This book is about Pippin who needs to plan her twin's wedding while at the same time her life goes through major changes and her best friend Toby comes back in Boston.
It is a cute childhood friends to lovers, slow burn, a bit cliche, perfect for someone who wants a light romance with not a lot of drama.
It is a nice book but I did not like as much as I thought, I found Pippin's character a bit immature in the beginning, like she is scared of big changes and that's fine, and her sister dropping the news of her wedding and presenting for the first time Mackenzie, her fiancée, at the same time was a big change but Pippin was so judgy of her without reason and a bit mean in certain moments.
I found also the ending a bit rushed, everything happening at once but without a lot of space dedicated to them.
As for the romance it was nice, but it picked up in the second half of the book, I really liked their spicy scenes.

I really liked the idea of a “Father of the Bride” retelling but this missed the mark. Pippin has been running her family’s 100 year old (ish) restaurant in downtown Boston for 8 years since her father’s untimely death when she was 18. She’s excited for her twin to come home from studying abroad in London but is shocked when she learns her sister Polly has come home with a fiancée. Instead of coming off as overprotective or even hurt because her sister never even mentioned she was dating anyone, she comes off as mean, selfish, arrogant, and close minded. She makes a snap judgment about Mackenzie and refuses to let up on that for literally the whole book until the very end. THEN her mother and grandmother announce they’re selling the building they own that houses the restaurant and the apartments where they live, thus sending Pippin into a tailspin. AND her hot childhood best friend also moves back to Boston to take a job at the local hospital making her question how she actually feels about him.

This had great potential but it just felt superficial and surface level. I wasn’t excited about the romance because it was clear where it was going from the first mention of Toby’s name. Pippin is a one way street and knows nothing about Toby’s former 4 year relationship or that they broke up or even that he wanted to change his career path before he showed up out of the blue back in Boston. Once Pippin got to know her sister’s fiancee it would’ve been nice to see her admit she was wrong and make an attempt to get to know her better but she held on to her first impressions of her right up until their wedding.

At a friend's recommendation, I grabbed the eARC of this romance by a new-to-me author, and I am so glad I did. Sister of the Bride is a loose retelling of the movie, Father of the Bride. But instead of focusing on the father's character, we focus on Pippin, the soon-to-be bride's twin sister.

This book has such a great mix of depth of feeling and humor. The Marino family restaurant sounds fabulous, and the book made me so hungry for good Italian food. The characters were great. I really appreciated the approach to Polly and Mackenzie's relationship. And it's a toss up who gives Pippin better advice: her Italian Nonna or the sister's soon to be in law therapist.

But by far, Toby stole the show. I'm always a sucker for a friends-to-lovers romance, and I fell hard and fast for Toby. He's such a perfect book boyfriend with just the right mix of sensitivity, patience, vulnerability, and going for what he wants. And his dad jokes over text begin each chapter in a way that I consistently enjoyed.

I'll be looking forward to more from Lauren Morrill.

Thank you to Yellow House Media and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. These opinions are my own.

We meet Pippin Marino when she’s making lasagna in het family’s restaurant, and her best friend Toby pops in, and announces he’s moving back. Pippin’s over the moon! But in a hurry because her twin sister’s plane is about to land in a little while, after a six months stay in London. She announces she’s getting married to a woman she’s met. Polly has a hard time with that, and turns to Toby for support. Then her mother decides to sell the restaurant, which is Pippin’s live and she put a lot of blood, sweat and tears in it to bring it back from financial ruin. So that doesn’t land well with her, either. So again Toby is the one she runs to. Of course she ends up falling in love and surprise: he’s in love with her, too.
A very light read, I loved the whole Italian family and the Italian restaurant. I kept imagining Carlo’s Bakery, a family like that. Toby and Pippin are very good friends and their friendship evolved very naturally into a relationship. A sweet read.
I received and reviewed an advanced copy of this book and I am grateful for this opportunity. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you NetGalley and Lauren Morrill for an advance reader copy of "Sister of the Bride."

Keeping in mind that this was an uncorrected proof, I very much enjoyed this book, This was exactly what I needed it to be - a fun, light-hearted romcom with some soul to it in places, but not overwhelming.

I loved the characters, they were portrayed very clearly with distinctive personalities in both descriptions of them and in how their dialogue was written. I really felt for Pip, because I've had everything fall apart and just wanted to hold onto one idea even if it wasn't the most accurate one. Mine didn't end as well. Her brat moments and breakdowns were believable and not overdone to the point where it made me stop connecting with the main character, and she had a wonderful amount of self-awareness I don't see in a lot of characters.

The story arc was present and there. Started off with good things, then things started falling apart, then things REALLY started falling apart for Pip, and she handled it very much like how I've seen real people handle things, in both the good and the bad ways. I do think that the miscommunication at the end might've been a little underplayed, but I liked it. There are so many times I've read other books and just broken out of the book thrall because things like that were too unbelievable.

It's just a fun read.

A cute rom-com with a friends to lovers theme. It was only a 3.5 for me because I felt as though the storyline was a tad dragged out. I also thought the food/restaurant aspect was going to be more central to the story. A fun summer read though!

Lauren Morrill's Sister of the Bride is a lovely heartwarming friends-to-lovers romance. The story follows Pippin Marino, whose life is going through many unexpected changes, but her best friend, Toby Sullivan, remains a constant source of support. Pippin can't help but entertain thoughts of a romantic relationship with Toby, but her fears hold her back.

The characters in the book are all lively and memorable - especially Pippin's family. However, I felt that Toby didn't get as much attention as he deserved; since the story is narrated solely from Pippin's perspective. The romance between Pippin and Toby also took a while to develop and wasn't explored in depth until much later in the book.

Despite these minor criticisms, I found Sister of the Bride to be a delightfully funny and entertaining family drama. The ending felt a bit rushed, but the epilogue tied things up nicely. Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a cozy and cute tale with a touch of romance.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advance copy of this book due for release on Sept. 12, 2023; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

This book is friends to lovers yearning excellence. I swear Lauren wrote this just for me.

I will admit that I was very scared to read this book initially. I thought it sounded fantastic and right up my alley, but I know Lauren IRL so I was scared I was going to hate it and was going to have to pretend to love it. However, that was not the case and I will sing Sister of the Bride's praises for the rest of time. It is perfectly steamy, fluffy, romantic, and humorous. I couldn't have dreamed of a more perfect book. I am also a huge fan of Father of the Bride so it was perfect.

This book is so funny that I was cackling out loud. SO FUNNY! Dad jokes are a big part of the book and you bet your butt that I texted every single one to my own father. Me reading this book was his torture.

Pippin and Toby are also a perfect example of a realistic progression of friends to lovers. And like I mentioned earlier... YEARNING!!!! You can't have a good romance book without a little bit of yearning.

The steam was also perfect. Just the right amount. And sometimes my biggest gripe is when smut is there just for the sake of smut (don't get me wrong I will still gladly read it) but what I loved was that the steam in this book actually played an important part in the plot and progression of Pippin and Toby's relationship.

Did I mention the humor? Yes? Okay good because I am still thinking about it.

I feel like I can't say enough good things about Sister of the Bride. But you can probably add a few more, read Sister of the Bride when it comes out in September 2023.

Thank you Netgalley and Lauren Morrill for the chance to read this precious ARC.

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I loved it so much that I finished it in one sitting!

When Pippin finds out her sister is engaged, Pippin must help plan her sister’s dream wedding while also dealing with the news that her family is selling the restaurant and home she has known her whole life. The only good news is her childhood friend Toby is back after several years away. As the wedding grows close and Pippin working out her future, she starts to believe that maybe there is more to her relationship with Toby than friends.

I enjoyed the chemistry between Toby and Pippin and even laughed at the horrible dad jokes that were at the beginning of each chapter. The slow burn romance had me guessing and enjoyed reading about Pippins journey to find her new route in life. Overall, a perfect book to read in fall.

Thank you to NetGalley and Lauren Morrill for the opportunity to review this ARC

First, it is noteworthy that I had a book hangover for days after finishing the epilogue. I absolutely loved this book!

An absolute must-read for fans of:
📱 Dad jokes
🇮🇹 Lasagna
🍦 Love scenes instigated by ice cream
😘 Sweet talking heroes
🙌 ‘It’s always been you.’

Pippin is having a quarter-life crisis. Her family has decided to sell the restaurant that she‘s been pouring herself into since her dad’s death. The building also happens to be the home she’s lived in since birth. And her sister has returned from Europe engaged to a stranger that Pippin just can’t get a read on.

Enter best friend Toby who is also back in town after an 8 year stint studying in California. The perfect balance to Pippin’s energy—he is such a swoony hero!

The honesty in this friends to lovers story made my heart so happy, and bonus points for no third act break-up.

Cannot recommend this one enough for a laugh out loud book that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Do NOT read this book without snacks… you’ll be starving. And if you happen to have been obsessed with the 1991 Steve Martin movie Father of the Bride, you will die over all the fun call-backs!

This book releases in September! Thanks to @netgalley and @laurenmorrill for the arc. All opinions are mine.

This book surprised me. I honestly didn’t think I was going to like it as much as I did. Friends to Lovers is not my favorite trope but Lauren Morrill sold it for me.

Pippin’s life is one upheaval over another. She can’t think straight. The only thing constant in her life is her friend Toby so starting to think he’s attractive in his scrubs is not helping matters. But Pippin can’t help herself.

This book was very comforting to me. I can tell within a chapter or two if I am gonna like a book. I was instantly hooked on it and finished it in 24 hours.

It’s an easy read, but it still has a lot of heart in it.

Thank you NetGalley and Lauren Morrill for the ARC.

This is a really cute book! Be prepared for the SLOW BURN thought- for real, like over 60% before anything happens between Pippin and Toby. But I love friends-to-lovers, so it still worked for me. It's relatively low spice (basically just two explicit scenes). There were times when I felt like the pacing seemed a little disjointed, but it didn't distract too much from the overall plot and I didn't find myself enjoying it less because of that.

Pippin is managing her family's restaurant as she has been for the last eight years since her fathers death. Her twin sister, Polly, comes back from a study abroad program in London with big news- she got engaged! While Pippin struggles to accept this new part of her life, her best friend, Toby, moves back to Boston after living in California for eight years doing his undergrad and medical school studies. The twins and Toby have known each other since they were five, so at 26, they've got a lot of years under their belts as best friends. So, Polly is back and now a wedding has to be planned. But of course, life needs to throw more at Pippin- her mom and Nonna tell her that they are going to sell the restaurant (which is also where they live in the apartments above). Her whole life is changing quickly and in a lot of ways, so she doesn't want to lose Toby too. But she can't help how she's noticed her feelings about him changing since he got back to Boston. I feel like once they finally kissed, things took off pretty quickly, but then Pip slammed on the brakes because she was so afraid of getting hurt or hurting Toby. When she finally picks things up again, they go full throttle and it felt like a whirlwind to me.

Lauren Morrill’s “Sister of the Bride” is a charming and heartwarming romcom that flawlessly combines themes of family, love, and self-discovery. With a delightful retelling of “Father of the Bride” and an irresistible touch of lasagna, this novel offers readers an enjoyable and emotionally satisfying reading experience.

The story revolves around Pippin Marino, a young woman who finds herself grappling with unexpected changes in her life. From her twin sister’s engagement and the daunting task of planning a wedding to her mother’s decision to sell the beloved family restaurant, Pippin’s world is in a constant state of flux. Morrill skillfully portrays Pippin’s struggles with change, making her a relatable and endearing protagonist.

One of the highlights of this novel is the captivating friendship between Pippin and her best friend, Toby Sullivan. Their banter and chemistry bring a delightful energy to the story, making their scenes together a joy to read. When Toby offers to help Pippin with wedding planning, their relationship takes an unexpected turn, adding an extra layer of tension and complexity. Morrill expertly explores the consequences of their evolving dynamic, creating genuine moments of vulnerability and self-discovery for both characters.

Morrill’s writing style is engaging and immersive, effortlessly transporting readers into Pippin’s world. The author’s vivid descriptions breathe life into the story, whether it’s the mouthwatering aroma of lasagna wafting from the family restaurant or the bustling energy of Boston’s streets. The narrative flows smoothly, keeping the pace brisk and ensuring that readers remain captivated from beginning to end.

While “Sister of the Bride” explores familiar tropes found in romantic comedies, Lauren Morrill adds her unique flair to the genre. The story’s underlying message about embracing change and finding the courage to pursue one’s own happiness resonates deeply. Morrill deftly balances lighthearted moments with more profound emotional arcs, creating a well-rounded and satisfying narrative.

The only reason this review doesn’t merit a full five stars is the occasional predictability of the plot. Some readers might find certain plot developments foreseeable, but the captivating characters and Morrill’s storytelling ability more than make up for this minor flaw.

In conclusion, “Sister of the Bride” is a delightful romcom that will leave readers with a smile on their faces. Lauren Morrill’s relatable characters, witty dialogue, and heartfelt exploration of love and change make this book a must-read for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a fan of lasagna or simply in need of a heartwarming story, this novel is a perfect choice for cozy nights and uplifting escapism.

Rating: ★★★★/★★★★★

I finished this whole book because I was thankful to be given an ARC for it and I wanted to give it the benefit of the doubt so I could give it a real review, but...it was rough.

I just feel like there was no storyline. I couldn't get over the main characters only calling each other "Pizza" and "Pepporoni". Maybe for fans of cliche, flat romance books (and I know there are those people out there!) this would be a fun easy read. But for someone who likes meat and storyline and relatable/understandable characters, this is not for you.

So where would I begin?
Pippin suddenly got herself into a crisis, she had so much on her plate- her sister’s wedding, her mom and grandmother selling their( her) home and restaurant which is her baby.

Now she feels like she losing everything her home, job ever her sister but but but her best friend is back who got her back all the time and who understands her like no one and who become so so hot and sexy doctor🔥🥵🤌🏻.

Toby a walking green flag🟩(I don't have a green flag emoji😅) he got a dimple when he smiles, a doctor baywatch🤭.
Return his home to win over his best friend, he already loved Pippin for so fucking years and
now finally she shows some attraction for him😍.

He makes DAD JOKES to make Pippin laugh seriously even bad dad jokes on a daily basis he tortures Pippin with (she was told I'm quoting🤣💕) his groan-worthy dad jokes 🤣 if you want to know just swipe left to see his dad jokes🤣.

He intends to wait for her no matter how much time🤌🏻💘💕.

I love how they understand each other without expressing their thoughts but I would have gone crazy if this book had a dual POV💕😍😍 I wanted to know what Toby thinks and how he sees Pippin and how he describes her so fucking much I wanted it😭😭🤌🔥😍.

Well...this was super cute!
I'm in love with this book 🥰
This is the perfect romance novel to devour in one sitting (which I did) 😄 If you love the movie Father of the Bride as much as I do, then you'll love this book!
It's funny, filled with sweet moments and the friends to lovers trope is just perfect! ❤

Pip and Toby were super cute, their friendship was sweet and fun and extremely adorable.
The best part?: He sends her bad dad jokes every day! I mean come on! How can you not fall for this man? 😅

Easy 5/5 ⭐ read if you ask me!

I'm so grateful that I got the chance to read the ARC before the book comes out in September.

I posted my review on Goodreads too.

I will not be posting a review anywhere but netgalley, mostly because my issue with this book is very simple--there are a LOT of editing mistakes just in the first 4 pages alone. It greatly detracts from what is otherwise a very cute story.

I'm going to give it a 4 star for the author's sake, but it needs to be re-edited.

I love the family history, and the spin off of Father of the Bride. I look forward to reading more by Lauren Morrill.

Thank you for the opportunity to read and review Sister of the Bride.

Absolutely adored this book! I was already a fan of Lauren Morrill's YA novels, but this one certainly did not disappoint. The setting and the characters were captivating and the story between Pippin and Toby was worth the read!

The Marino family restaurant has been a Boston institution for years with many loyal customers, but things were about to change for everyone in the family. Pippin is my favorite character; the dutiful Italian daughter and grand-daughter who took over managing the restaurant after her beloved father passed away. She never really planned on a life at the restaurant but she loves being with her family and wouldn’t have it any other way. Pippin’s life got even busier when her twin sister, Polly, returned from London asking her to plan her wedding. Pippin quickly found a wedding planning app and she was good to go, or so she thought.

The next big change in her life was the return of her best friend, Toby, from California. He had accepted a residency at an Emergency Department in Boston and Pippin couldn't be happier for him.Toby looked so much hotter than the last time she saw him and he was currently single having broken up with his long term girlfriend Out of nowhere, Pippin began having romantic feelings for Toby. Perhaps all the wedding festivities and how happy her sister is was causing these crazy feelings she was having. Pippin would never ruin her friendship with Toby for a passionate night with him, or would she? With all the changes in her life, especially the sale of the restaurant, could Pippin make a rational decision about anything? Pippin also needs to find a job and a place to live, all while planning the perfect wedding for Polly. In my mind, Pippin is a super woman who can do anything she puts her mind to. Pippin deserves goodness, happiness and the love of a good man and I am confident all her dreams will come true!

I said this several times in my updates, but the structure of this novel was all wrong. It takes us almost 20% of the ebook to even find out that her sister is engaged and WE ALREADY KNOW THIS BECAUSE IT'S IN THE SYNOPSIS! I skipped ahead to the part where the protagonist and the love interest kiss (this was also already promised in the synopsis) just to get a fuller picture (and a naive hope that this book would get better) and no, it seems like this book just drags every event out forever.

In the perfect world (where every book I read is worthy of 5 stars) this book would have opened up with the engagement announcement and the kiss would have happened somewhere in the 20-40% range and then tension and romcom shenanigans would have built up from there. But alas, it was not meant to be.

It really is a crime that this book has the audacity to share a birthday with me (its pub date is September 12th). Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.