Review: To Marry and to Meddle

To Marry and to Meddle by Martha Waters
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The book starts off with a good premise: Julian needs a wife who not only makes him look respectable, but he needs make his theatre's reputation above reproach. Meanwhile, Emily needs a husband to not only get out from under her parents' thumb, but also away from a less than savory suitor. A marriage ( of convenience ) sounds like the perfect solution to their problems! But - is this marriage more complicated and burdensome?  Or have they found their perfect match in each other?

As I've read the other books in this series, and was looking forward to this relationship coming to fruition, I have to say - I'm disappointed in it's actual progression. Normally, when two people are meant to be, it just feels natural. This felt forced and unconvincing. I did not find the story very compelling. There was not much angst - which I adored because I like my romantic leads to be true to life and somewhat believable. But, I didn't feel that there was much in the way of their ultimate happiness ( other than the unsavory suitor ).  I did not find the story very enthralling either ( it took me time to get into the book ). It may be due to the lack of plot, but I've enjoyed plenty of plotless romances before ( as the author provides good character development ). I also felt that the stakes for Julian & Emily never reached a real high - I don't need death to be on the line - but I need to feel that whatever is at risk to their relationship mattered ( separation, misunderstandings, outside conflict, etc).  Unfortunately I didn't get that impression with this story and was left somewhat unfulfilled. 

I did enjoy the natural banter, quick whit, and overall LOL moments in the book, but the relationship part was lacking. I'm glad I saved reading this for last in my TO-DO list.

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