The Lucky Escape by Laura Jane Williams is a highly entertaining, coming of age story of two people drawn together after years apart. This is my second novel by this author, and my favourite.
Plot Summary
The story begins with Annie’s wedding day. When Annie arrives at the church, however, she receives devastating news. Her groom Alexander sends his apologies, but he won’t be coming. As you would expect, Annie is overwhelmed by the news and moreover feels that she no longer has control over her life.
In order to gain some focus, Annie attends an exercise class where she is reacquainted with Patrick. The two were good friends at a youth theatre camp. Conversation is easy. Annie tells Patrick about her recent wedding disaster. Patrick informs Annie of a tragic event in his own life which has changed his life immensely.
Annie is reminded on the joy of her life in her youth and decides she needs to take hold of any and all opportunities. So when Alexander’s parents invite her and a friend to go on the honeymoon trip to Australia that they had purchased for the couple, Annie accepts the invitation. After a night of drinking with Patrick, Annie ends up taking Alexander on a honeymoon trip which will change both of their lives forever.
Book Review
The Lucky Escape is a charming story of moving on and creating a life that brings joy to you and those around you. Both Annie and Patrick are extremely likeable and it felt like they found each other again at the perfect time in their lives. I felt engaged throughout the book and felt the story to be a heartwarming, easy read.
The honeymoon trip to Australia was a time of healing for both Annie and Patrick. It was interesting to see them rebuild a friendship that brought out the best in one another. I appreciated their time in Australia and the many tourist activities the two participated in. There were many humorous moments which balanced the more serious times of self reflection.
Audiobook Review
I listened to the audiobook version of The Lucky Escape which was narrated by Hope Fletcher. Her performance was articulate and enthusiastic and highly entertaining. I would not hesitate to recommend this version of the book those those who appreciate audiobooks.
What I Liked About The Lucky Escape:
- The storyline of two friends meeting again to help each other move on after adversity.
- The level of personal growth and increased confidence as a result of the friendship.
- The feeling of being brought along on a vacation to Australia.
I Recommend This Book To:
Those readers that enjoy coming of age contemporary romance novels that celebrate friendship.
Acknowledgments:
Thank you to HarperCollins UK Audio and Netgalley for the advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for this honest review. The Lucky Escape publishes today.
My Rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Add The Lucky Escape to your Goodreads shelf
Similar Books I’ve Reviewed:
Life’s Too Short by Abby Jimenez
Meet Me in Paradise by Libby Hubscher
The Summer Seekers by Sarah Morgan
Thank you for reading! I hope I’ve helped you find your next read ☺️
Wendy
I love a book about a couple who become friends first. And friends who reconnect after a while. Great review Jodie!
thathappyreader
Thank you Wendy!
Charley Allison
This sounds like such a great read, thanks for sharing such an honest review! I’ll definitely have to add this to my reading list.
thathappyreader
Thanks Charley!
JamieAtStories
A great review! Sounds like a worthy book.
thathappyreader
Thank you!
Loren
This book sounds like fun! The healing and re-acquaintance of the characters make me want to read this novel, plus a trip to Australia sounds like fun!
The plot of the book also reminded me of an Afrikaans language film (Vir Altyd) where the fiance left the bride at the altar and she goes on the honeymoon with the baker (an old friend) after a drunken night.
Thanks for sharing this fun and sweet read, and for introducing me to a new author!
Loren | plaidandsugar.com
thathappyreader
That sounds like a great movie! I’ll try and find it to watch! Thanks Loren. 😊
Elle
This sounds an amazing book, thank you for sharing such a in-depth review! Xo
Elle – ellegracedeveson.com
thathappyreader
Thanks Elle!
Jaya Avendel
Loving the sounds of The Lucky Escape! I am currently enjoying light summer reads that offer the right balance of sweet, sad, and spicy. Annie, Patrick, and Alexander’s stories sound just that.
Thanks for sharing!
thathappyreader
Thanks Jaya!
Raji
This sounds like a lovely read! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book set in Australia, and old friends reconnecting is always an enjoyable trope. Thanks for sharing!
thathappyreader
Thank you Raji!
Charity
Sounds like a great book. I will have to check it out. Thanks so much for sharing!
thathappyreader
Thanks Charity!
Sara James
I liked the stories with happy endings and realistic approaches. It sounds like a great book.
Thanks for reviewing it.
thathappyreader
Thanks Sara!
Simona
This sounds like a great summer read, I need to add it to my TBR immediately! Thank you for sharing it x
thathappyreader
Thanks Simona! I hope that you enjoy it.☺️
Sophie
This sounds like a lovely sweet and fun summertime read. I’m glad she gets her happy ending after a rough start!
thathappyreader
Thanks Sophie!