Otherwise Engaged by Susan Mallery

This book was sent to Traveling With T for review consideration.

Otherwise Engaged

A twisty, tender and wise look at how secrets can transform the powerful—and sometimes problematic—bond between mothers and daughters, from #1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery.

When Shannon gets engaged, her beloved mom, Cindy, is the first person she wants to tell—and the last. Cindy’s engaged, too, and has already hinted at a double wedding. The image of a synchronized bouquet toss with her mom fills Shannon with horror. She’ll keep her engagement a secret until Cindy’s I-dos are done.

Victoria has never been proper enough for her mother, Ava, so she stopped trying. She lives on her own terms and amuses herself by pushing Ava’s buttons. Ava loves but doesn’t understand her stuntwoman daughter. When a movie-set mishap brings Victoria home, Ava longs to finally connect.

Chance brings the four women together at a wedding venue, where a shocking secret comes tumbling out. Twenty-four years ago, desperate teenager Cindy chose wealthy Ava to adopt her baby—then changed her mind at the very last second. The loss rocked Ava’s world, leaving her unable to open her heart to the daughter she did adopt, Victoria. As Shannon and Victoria deal with the fallout from the decisions their mothers made, they wrestle with whether who they are is different than who they might have become.

Traveling With T’s Thoughts:

I always enjoy a Susan Mallery book. She’s got a way with characters and I know we’re in for a good time and a HEA ending.

Over the last few books, I’ve noticed that the “bad” character characteristics or the conflict seems to be greatly exaggerated. This is not necessarily a bad thing, just an observation.

I was curious as to how Susan was going to handle this tough topic in her book- and while she did not dive super deep (nor did I expect her to), she did handle it with care (adoption).

What I liked:

I thought the cover was cute.

Shannon and Victoria. Some awkward moments, moments of honesty (occasionally brutal), and a respect for what the other was going through in the aftermath of the secret about their mothers and origins being revealed made for a potentially good relationship between the gals.

The complexity of the relationship between Cindy and Ava. Both felt hurt in their relationship. Both felt happiness. Seeing each other years later after so many years and unanswered questions led to opportunities to put the past behind them and attempt to forge a new relationship.

Bottom line: Enjoyable! A quick read that you will enjoy!

*This book was sent to Traveling With T for review consideration. All Thoughts and opinions are mine alone.*