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Save the Date #1
Save the Date
Can this wedding be saved?
Up-and-coming floral designer Cara Kryzik is about to score the wedding of a lifetime—one that will solidify her career as the go-to-girl for Savannah society nuptials. The only problem is, life seems to be conspiring against her. Cara's implacable father, "The Colonel", doesn't believe in Cara's business savvy and is about to call in his twenty-thousand-dollar loan. Then, on the morning that someone steals her dog, Cara's refrigerator goes on the blink, turning twelve thousand dollars' worth of gorgeous blooms into road kill. And if that's not enough, the dog-napper, Jack Finnerty, turns up at her latest wedding and then mysteriously leaves her stranded on the dance floor.
All this turmoil will be solved if Cara can pull off the lavish Trappnell-Strayhorn wedding. The payday will solve all her problems—even the looming problem of a celebrated florist named Cullen Keane who is moving into her turf from Charleston. But the wedding is in six weeks, the bride is acting strangely (even for a bride) and the stepmother of the bride is becoming Cara's biggest headache. What Cara needs is to focus, but that's not easy when Jack is turning up at every wedding in Savannah (the man seems to know everybody), with Cara in his sights and seduction on his mind.
When Brooke Trappnell spirals into a shocking crisis and the wedding is in jeopardy, Cara must come to the rescue and figure out what she really believes in. Is it love? Is it her own strength? In the end, for everyone, "Save the Date" has more meanings than one. Told with Mary Kay Andrews's trademark wit and keen eye for detail, Save the Date is one you won't want to miss.
Up-and-coming floral designer Cara Kryzik is about to score the wedding of a lifetime—one that will solidify her career as the go-to-girl for Savannah society nuptials. The only problem is, life seems to be conspiring against her. Cara's implacable father, "The Colonel", doesn't believe in Cara's business savvy and is about to call in his twenty-thousand-dollar loan. Then, on the morning that someone steals her dog, Cara's refrigerator goes on the blink, turning twelve thousand dollars' worth of gorgeous blooms into road kill. And if that's not enough, the dog-napper, Jack Finnerty, turns up at her latest wedding and then mysteriously leaves her stranded on the dance floor.
All this turmoil will be solved if Cara can pull off the lavish Trappnell-Strayhorn wedding. The payday will solve all her problems—even the looming problem of a celebrated florist named Cullen Keane who is moving into her turf from Charleston. But the wedding is in six weeks, the bride is acting strangely (even for a bride) and the stepmother of the bride is becoming Cara's biggest headache. What Cara needs is to focus, but that's not easy when Jack is turning up at every wedding in Savannah (the man seems to know everybody), with Cara in his sights and seduction on his mind.
When Brooke Trappnell spirals into a shocking crisis and the wedding is in jeopardy, Cara must come to the rescue and figure out what she really believes in. Is it love? Is it her own strength? In the end, for everyone, "Save the Date" has more meanings than one. Told with Mary Kay Andrews's trademark wit and keen eye for detail, Save the Date is one you won't want to miss.
448 pages, Hardcover
First published June 3, 2014
About the author
Mary Kay Andrews
65 books12.5k followershttps://marykayandrews.com/
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MARY KAY ANDREWS is the New York Times bestselling author of 30 novels (including The Homewreckers, The Santa Suit, The Newcomer; Hello, Summer; Sunset Beach; The High Tide Club; The Weekenders; Beach Town; Save the Date; Ladies’ Night; Christmas Bliss; Spring Fever; Summer Rental; The Fixer Upper; Deep Dish; Blue Christmas; Savannah Breeze; Hissy Fit; Little Bitty Lies; and Savannah Blues), and one cookbook, The Beach House Cookbook.
A native of St. Petersburg, Florida, she earned a B.A. in journalism from The University of Georgia. After a 14-year career working as a reporter at newspapers including The Savannah Morning News, The Marietta Journal, and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, where she spent the final ten years of her career, she left journalism in 1991 to write fiction.
Her first novel, Every Crooked Nanny, was published in 1992 by HarperCollins. She went on to write ten critically acclaimed mysteries under her real name, Kathy Hogan Trocheck. In 2002, she assumed the pen name Mary Kay Andrews with the publication of Savannah Blues. In 2006, Hissy Fit became her first New York Times bestseller, followed by twelve more New York Times, USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestsellers. To date, her novels have been published in German, Italian, Polish, Slovenian, Hungarian, Dutch, Czech and Japanese.
She and her family divide their time between Atlanta and Tybee Island, GA, where they cook up new recipes in two restored beach homes, The Breeze Inn and Ebbtide—both named after fictional places in Mary Kay’s novels, and both available to rent through Tybee Vacation Rentals. In between cooking, spoiling her grandkids, and plotting her next novel, Mary Kay is an intrepid treasure hunter whose favorite pastime is junking and fixing up old houses.
https://www.facebook.com/marykayandre...
https://www.instagram.com/marykayandr...
MARY KAY ANDREWS is the New York Times bestselling author of 30 novels (including The Homewreckers, The Santa Suit, The Newcomer; Hello, Summer; Sunset Beach; The High Tide Club; The Weekenders; Beach Town; Save the Date; Ladies’ Night; Christmas Bliss; Spring Fever; Summer Rental; The Fixer Upper; Deep Dish; Blue Christmas; Savannah Breeze; Hissy Fit; Little Bitty Lies; and Savannah Blues), and one cookbook, The Beach House Cookbook.
A native of St. Petersburg, Florida, she earned a B.A. in journalism from The University of Georgia. After a 14-year career working as a reporter at newspapers including The Savannah Morning News, The Marietta Journal, and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, where she spent the final ten years of her career, she left journalism in 1991 to write fiction.
Her first novel, Every Crooked Nanny, was published in 1992 by HarperCollins. She went on to write ten critically acclaimed mysteries under her real name, Kathy Hogan Trocheck. In 2002, she assumed the pen name Mary Kay Andrews with the publication of Savannah Blues. In 2006, Hissy Fit became her first New York Times bestseller, followed by twelve more New York Times, USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestsellers. To date, her novels have been published in German, Italian, Polish, Slovenian, Hungarian, Dutch, Czech and Japanese.
She and her family divide their time between Atlanta and Tybee Island, GA, where they cook up new recipes in two restored beach homes, The Breeze Inn and Ebbtide—both named after fictional places in Mary Kay’s novels, and both available to rent through Tybee Vacation Rentals. In between cooking, spoiling her grandkids, and plotting her next novel, Mary Kay is an intrepid treasure hunter whose favorite pastime is junking and fixing up old houses.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,691 reviews
January 5, 2016
Save the Date is a standalone, women's fiction/chick lit novel written by author Mary Kay Andrews. This is the first time I have ever read a book by Ms. Andrews, and overall, I liked it. I enjoyed the romance, the dogs, the light humor, and I loved that this story was set in Savannah, Georgia. And Cumberland Island being included??? Oh my heart ♥.
If you have never been to Savannah, then go! It's such a beautiful town with an age that is felt through its historical preservation. And while you are on that side of the state, GO TO CUMBERLAND ISLAND. I mean, Save the Date basically gives you all the information you need to know about it and it's surprisingly accurate. Ferry times and all LOL. I've been twice and have a goal to visit the island many, many more times. It's like being a castaway. It's quiet, tranquil, full of nature, with minimal conveniences. Yep, you're all on your own and completely unplugged. I highly recommend it!
Enough about Cumberland Island and back to the book...So you know what I liked about the book. The other stuff, the meat of the story really (wedding planning, flowers, business management, a light mystery, etc.) was just OK in my opinion. The story itself was entertaining but didn't quite capture me with that "can't put the book down" type of feeling. But I did feel comfort with the geographical setting, so that made the experience worthwhile. If you enjoy all types of chick lit, then add this one to your TBR shelf...and while you're online, research a bit more those two Georgia spots and put them on your bucket list. You won't be sorry!
If you have never been to Savannah, then go! It's such a beautiful town with an age that is felt through its historical preservation. And while you are on that side of the state, GO TO CUMBERLAND ISLAND. I mean, Save the Date basically gives you all the information you need to know about it and it's surprisingly accurate. Ferry times and all LOL. I've been twice and have a goal to visit the island many, many more times. It's like being a castaway. It's quiet, tranquil, full of nature, with minimal conveniences. Yep, you're all on your own and completely unplugged. I highly recommend it!
Enough about Cumberland Island and back to the book...So you know what I liked about the book. The other stuff, the meat of the story really (wedding planning, flowers, business management, a light mystery, etc.) was just OK in my opinion. The story itself was entertaining but didn't quite capture me with that "can't put the book down" type of feeling. But I did feel comfort with the geographical setting, so that made the experience worthwhile. If you enjoy all types of chick lit, then add this one to your TBR shelf...and while you're online, research a bit more those two Georgia spots and put them on your bucket list. You won't be sorry!
August 13, 2017
I think I may have outgrown this frippery, it was an entertaining easy read, but after I finished it I felt as if I’d consumed a bag of chips and had nothing to show for it but empty calories. And guilt.
February 23, 2017
I'd forgotten that Mary Kay Andrews is a cheerful, chick /women's lit writer of such considerable talent, until I met again after considerable absence in SAVE THE DATE. For a moment, I recognized the first chapter - an introduction read from a previous novel- but quickly realized that I'd only just nibbled at the charm of this upbeat frolic.
Cara is divorced from a cheating husband, a Yankee finding her way with a new flower shop business in Savannah, Georgia. Everything that could go wrong does, of course, except that her talent with flowers continues to wow the wealthy elite and their bridal parties. Throw in a handsome good guy, some passionate under the covers and two cute dogs... The thumps and bumps continue, wonderful wedding descriptions abound, a rival moves into town with revenge on his mind, the old girlfriend returns, wedding plans cancel, staff screws up... The plot zips along with its busyness and somewhat caricatured townsfolk, until we get what we came for: Love, goodness and happiness prevail!
Perfect escapism for after an earlier demanding book, some stressful days and grey chilly skies.
4 stars, fulfilling the qualities predicated by light, frothy, fun Chick Lit with romance.
Cara is divorced from a cheating husband, a Yankee finding her way with a new flower shop business in Savannah, Georgia. Everything that could go wrong does, of course, except that her talent with flowers continues to wow the wealthy elite and their bridal parties. Throw in a handsome good guy, some passionate under the covers and two cute dogs... The thumps and bumps continue, wonderful wedding descriptions abound, a rival moves into town with revenge on his mind, the old girlfriend returns, wedding plans cancel, staff screws up... The plot zips along with its busyness and somewhat caricatured townsfolk, until we get what we came for: Love, goodness and happiness prevail!
Perfect escapism for after an earlier demanding book, some stressful days and grey chilly skies.
4 stars, fulfilling the qualities predicated by light, frothy, fun Chick Lit with romance.
June 9, 2014
I wait impatiently for June to roll around each year so that I can read the newest Mary Kay Andrews Novel! I grab it the day of its release and then devour it, which leaves me feeling sad that I read it so fast… ‘Save the Date’ is a fantastic read! IF you are a fan of Southern Belles, Chick-Lit, Romance, and/or Drama, then you have to read this one. And if you have never read any of her books – you must! Her books are the perfect little cocktails of humor, love, friendships, family, and drama, which she balances amazingly.
June 21, 2014
This dragged along, with a lot of typos in the Kindle edition. Had about 100 pages been trimmed from it, it would have been great. I live in Savannah but even I got bored with the constant naming of places. It seemed like she was getting paid per word, instead of for a book. I don't know much about flowers, but if you do I guess you'll like the many descriptions of them. I prefer her other books set in Savannah.
July 16, 2024
This may be the perfect beach read, but beware! If you are anything like me you will become so engrossed in the lives of the characters that you will forget yourself and burn to a crisp. I had forgotten how much I loved this authors earlier works and I am so glad to have read this book.
The story is a typical Southern one with plenty of back-biting, back-stabbing and 'bless her hearts' to go around. Wonderful main characters, truly interesting secondary characters and a 'plot' that won't let you down. You know going in that something bad is going to happen (and oh Lordy bad sure does come at Cara from all directions and almost never stops!) to Cara (the protagonist) but in your heart you know that anything horrid is going to be offset by something wonderful - and wonderful it is indeed. Now if only Cara could see it!
What makes this an even better read for me is that these are the kinds of women that I could see as some of my closest friends. No complaints from me about this particular novel. 448 pages and I read it in 8 hours, I think I even forgot to eat I was so engrossed.
Happy Reading!
The story is a typical Southern one with plenty of back-biting, back-stabbing and 'bless her hearts' to go around. Wonderful main characters, truly interesting secondary characters and a 'plot' that won't let you down. You know going in that something bad is going to happen (and oh Lordy bad sure does come at Cara from all directions and almost never stops!) to Cara (the protagonist) but in your heart you know that anything horrid is going to be offset by something wonderful - and wonderful it is indeed. Now if only Cara could see it!
What makes this an even better read for me is that these are the kinds of women that I could see as some of my closest friends. No complaints from me about this particular novel. 448 pages and I read it in 8 hours, I think I even forgot to eat I was so engrossed.
Happy Reading!
June 25, 2017
I did like Save the Date but, gosh, shallow much. The characters just blow with the wind or rather whichever way the author needs them to blow on that particular page. This becomes more and more obvious the closer you get to the end of the book.
Two particular points drop the book's rating from three to two stars:
1. An error or two over the line of okay - from simple typos to Libba becoming Lillian for a moment - well, not really becoming Lillian but definitely having a name-change.
2. The big misunderstanding seems utterly ridiculous. Nobody would react with the petulance and determination to make her own life as miserable as Cara does. Mary Kay Andrews lost me at this point.
Did like the setting and the wedding details.
Two particular points drop the book's rating from three to two stars:
1. An error or two over the line of okay - from simple typos to Libba becoming Lillian for a moment - well, not really becoming Lillian but definitely having a name-change.
2. The big misunderstanding seems utterly ridiculous. Nobody would react with the petulance and determination to make her own life as miserable as Cara does. Mary Kay Andrews lost me at this point.
Did like the setting and the wedding details.
July 1, 2014
You all know that I read, and enjoy, romances - erotic, suspense, and plain-old. We have a number of romance authors in our area that I read and like a lot - Jasmine Haynes/Jennifer Skully (erotic/non-erotic), Joan Swan, Virna DePaul, Elisabeth Barrett, Marina Adair, Jennifer Ryan. But, I have to admit, that I typically don't go looking for romances outside my scope of local authors. In this case, Save the Date, Mary Kay Andrews' 12th novel, and my 1st, was sent to me unsolicited. I figured, what the heck. Did I like it? I did. Did I like it as well as the other 6 authors I mentioned, I didn't. But, so what? That doesn't mean I wouldn't recommend it. Because I would. In fact, I gave it a 2.5/4. Not too shabby. Here's a rundown on what it's about.
A wedding florist finds love and trouble in this delightful new novel by the New York Times bestselling author of Ladies' Night
A savannah florist is about to score the wedding of a lifetime—one that will solidify her career as the go-to-girl for society nuptials. Ironically, Cara Kryzik doesn't believe in love, even though she creates beautiful flower arrangements to celebrate them. But when the bride goes missing and the wedding is in jeopardy, Cara must find the bride and figure out what she believes in. Maybe love really does exist outside of fairy tales after all.
This is a particularly light read. It almost makes me reconsider my staunch and intransigent (some might even call it stubborn) opinion about there being no such thing as a beach read. This one is darn close. (In fact, Writer's Digest says - "Mary Kay Andrews is the belle of the beach reads.") Be that as it may, she was still able to make me care about the characters. And you all know, blah, blah, blah, that this little issue is the deal breaker for me. I'm sure Ms. Andrews is breathing much easier now knowing that I cared about her characters. Wouldn't you agree?
There are a couple of similarities with other books that I want to mention:
1. The story takes place in Savannah, like Beth Hoffman's Saving CeeCee Honeycutt and JD Horn's The Line (from his Witching Savannah series).
2. Even though there's no talk about what the flowers mean, it's hard not to think of The Language of Flowers when reading Save the Date. After all, Cara is a florist. And much of the book centers around which flowers she picks for an occasion.
Do I need to tell you if Cara finds romance? I think not. It doesn't matter. I liked Cara, and I liked her love interest. Isn't that all a romance needs to accomplish?
ANOTHER PERSONAL NOTE:
This book takes place in Savannah, Georgia. I am a lifetime West Coaster (Coastener?) On this coast, we have purses. On that other coast, they have pocketbooks. Andrews, being an East Coast person, calls them pocketbooks. I smiled every time I read that. In fact, Diane and Steve, close friends of ours who were born on the East Coast, say "pockabook." Andrews didn't go quite that far.
AND A MEA CULPA:
Originally, I had the "pocketbook" story in my review of This Is Where I Leave You. I messed up. It belongs in this book, not that one.
GIVEAWAY:
All you have to do is state on this post that you like romances, and you will be in the drawing for a free copy of Save the Date, provided by Mary Kay Andrews' public relations company, Tandem Literary. You've got 1 week from today to make your comment.
A wedding florist finds love and trouble in this delightful new novel by the New York Times bestselling author of Ladies' Night
A savannah florist is about to score the wedding of a lifetime—one that will solidify her career as the go-to-girl for society nuptials. Ironically, Cara Kryzik doesn't believe in love, even though she creates beautiful flower arrangements to celebrate them. But when the bride goes missing and the wedding is in jeopardy, Cara must find the bride and figure out what she believes in. Maybe love really does exist outside of fairy tales after all.
This is a particularly light read. It almost makes me reconsider my staunch and intransigent (some might even call it stubborn) opinion about there being no such thing as a beach read. This one is darn close. (In fact, Writer's Digest says - "Mary Kay Andrews is the belle of the beach reads.") Be that as it may, she was still able to make me care about the characters. And you all know, blah, blah, blah, that this little issue is the deal breaker for me. I'm sure Ms. Andrews is breathing much easier now knowing that I cared about her characters. Wouldn't you agree?
There are a couple of similarities with other books that I want to mention:
1. The story takes place in Savannah, like Beth Hoffman's Saving CeeCee Honeycutt and JD Horn's The Line (from his Witching Savannah series).
2. Even though there's no talk about what the flowers mean, it's hard not to think of The Language of Flowers when reading Save the Date. After all, Cara is a florist. And much of the book centers around which flowers she picks for an occasion.
Do I need to tell you if Cara finds romance? I think not. It doesn't matter. I liked Cara, and I liked her love interest. Isn't that all a romance needs to accomplish?
ANOTHER PERSONAL NOTE:
This book takes place in Savannah, Georgia. I am a lifetime West Coaster (Coastener?) On this coast, we have purses. On that other coast, they have pocketbooks. Andrews, being an East Coast person, calls them pocketbooks. I smiled every time I read that. In fact, Diane and Steve, close friends of ours who were born on the East Coast, say "pockabook." Andrews didn't go quite that far.
AND A MEA CULPA:
Originally, I had the "pocketbook" story in my review of This Is Where I Leave You. I messed up. It belongs in this book, not that one.
GIVEAWAY:
All you have to do is state on this post that you like romances, and you will be in the drawing for a free copy of Save the Date, provided by Mary Kay Andrews' public relations company, Tandem Literary. You've got 1 week from today to make your comment.
July 10, 2014
I'm usually a huge Mary Kay Andrews - her annual book release is the highlight of my summer reading and Savannah Blues is one of my all time favorite books. When I learned that Save the Date was set in Savannah, I was pretty excited about reading it.
As you can see from my rating, it left me feeling only "meh" about the story.
Before I get in to the parts I didn't like, do know that Andrews does a wonderful job at describing her characters and settings, though this book did a little more telling than showing than some of her other books. The characters were distinct but just way too many for an easy beach read - I found myself wondering who some of the characters were in the epilogue because they're only mentioned once or twice and yet they're apart of the big special ending. I love how Andrews really gets in to the head of the character - Cara is a florist so her point of view story telling is focused on the plants surrounding her while Jack, the contractor, tends to focus on the structure details in his. She's great at writing characters with distinct voices and interests.
I also flip-flopped between liking and disliking Cara. At times, she was relatable but then she just became whiny and depressing before bouncing back to happy-go-lucky with lightening speed. Though she's going through a tough time, I couldn't help but think she brought most of it on herself.
The mystery [mysteries?] in the book were lukewarm, at best. It seemed like the characters were bipolar, willing to take down someone because of a lost antique dish and then being all "oh, good golly, I was so mean about that" the minute it was recovered - which was basically the same reaction with every other plot point. The evil florist, the exes, the missing bride, etc. They were all conveniently solved, which left me with a "that's it?" feeling. Plus the big question that kept revolving - Will Cara make enough money to pay back her dad, thus making her successful? - was never truly answered.
I would have given the story a three had I not read the last chapter and epilogue - it was a killer. Too perfectly wrapped together in a short amount of time. Add in the fact that there were multiple typos and random double punctuation marks throughout the book means that this rating will stay at two stars.
I hope Mary Kay Andrews' next book improves but I will probably check it out from the library rather than buying it like I usually do.
As you can see from my rating, it left me feeling only "meh" about the story.
Before I get in to the parts I didn't like, do know that Andrews does a wonderful job at describing her characters and settings, though this book did a little more telling than showing than some of her other books. The characters were distinct but just way too many for an easy beach read - I found myself wondering who some of the characters were in the epilogue because they're only mentioned once or twice and yet they're apart of the big special ending. I love how Andrews really gets in to the head of the character - Cara is a florist so her point of view story telling is focused on the plants surrounding her while Jack, the contractor, tends to focus on the structure details in his. She's great at writing characters with distinct voices and interests.
I also flip-flopped between liking and disliking Cara. At times, she was relatable but then she just became whiny and depressing before bouncing back to happy-go-lucky with lightening speed. Though she's going through a tough time, I couldn't help but think she brought most of it on herself.
The mystery [mysteries?] in the book were lukewarm, at best. It seemed like the characters were bipolar, willing to take down someone because of a lost antique dish and then being all "oh, good golly, I was so mean about that" the minute it was recovered - which was basically the same reaction with every other plot point. The evil florist, the exes, the missing bride, etc. They were all conveniently solved, which left me with a "that's it?" feeling. Plus the big question that kept revolving - Will Cara make enough money to pay back her dad, thus making her successful? - was never truly answered.
I would have given the story a three had I not read the last chapter and epilogue - it was a killer. Too perfectly wrapped together in a short amount of time. Add in the fact that there were multiple typos and random double punctuation marks throughout the book means that this rating will stay at two stars.
I hope Mary Kay Andrews' next book improves but I will probably check it out from the library rather than buying it like I usually do.
June 4, 2016
Later: Came back to drop my grade on this because I still hate Cara 2 years later upon remembrance.
Review 6/7/14:
Main character not particularly likable, (particularly pg. 243* and on), but floral and decorating details semi-interesting in a shelter-porn kind of way.
*pg. 243 rant follows:
Review 6/7/14:
Main character not particularly likable, (particularly pg. 243* and on), but floral and decorating details semi-interesting in a shelter-porn kind of way.
*pg. 243 rant follows:
September 11, 2015
I changed my mind.
I put this one on-hold a few months ago because I love the blurb even though I was bored the hell out of the actual story. After reading this for the second time, it's safe to say that Mary Kay Andrews is not for me.
I put this one on-hold a few months ago because I love the blurb even though I was bored the hell out of the actual story. After reading this for the second time, it's safe to say that Mary Kay Andrews is not for me.
February 6, 2017
Release Date: May 5, 2015
Genre: Womens Fiction & Chick Lit
Mary Kay Andrews has been one of my favorite authors since I began reading adult books. This is simply because each of her books have a unique plot and her writing style is flawless. Even more, her novels exude southern charm at it's finest, which is something I really love. With that being said, I felt no different when reading Save the Date and I adored this book to pieces. Cara, the heroine of the story, felt like a close friend of mine and when I finished the story I was pretty sad to see her go. The hero Jack was just as charming as Cara, and seeing the two go through their ups and downs in order to get to their HEA was delightful. Overall, this is just a sweet and fun read and I would definitely recommend it to those who enjoy chick lit and women's fiction novels.
More about the book...
In this novel, we meet Cara who is an up and coming florist in the Savannah area. Cara, as charming and feisty as she is, has dealt with many ups and downs when it comes to owning and operating her flower shop. This of course this is to be expected to someone who is fairly new to it, but somehow problems continue to arise, especially when she lands a fantastic opportunity to provide not only flowers to an exclusive family in town, but to help them plan the entire wedding. This sounds fantastic right? Especially considering she owes her overbearing father money that he lent her. But, with this opportunity comes a lot of jealousy from a rival. And things begin to unravel for Cara who only wants to do what she loves...
Jack Finnerty, a the sexy southern gentleman, is a well known and well liked contractor in the Savannah area. He and his brother Ryan restore historic homes for a living and are quite talented in doing so. Unfortunately for him, he comes with a little baggage when it comes to his golden doodle, and finds himself in a tricky situation when he accidentally takes the wrong dog home with him. Whose dog did he take? None other than the up and coming florist of Savannah who has more than enough on her plate already!
Will this chance meeting between the two end up in a whirlwind romance that is bound to last forever? Or will drama and personal hysterics be their demise? You'll have to read to find out!
Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Womens Fiction & Chick Lit
Mary Kay Andrews has been one of my favorite authors since I began reading adult books. This is simply because each of her books have a unique plot and her writing style is flawless. Even more, her novels exude southern charm at it's finest, which is something I really love. With that being said, I felt no different when reading Save the Date and I adored this book to pieces. Cara, the heroine of the story, felt like a close friend of mine and when I finished the story I was pretty sad to see her go. The hero Jack was just as charming as Cara, and seeing the two go through their ups and downs in order to get to their HEA was delightful. Overall, this is just a sweet and fun read and I would definitely recommend it to those who enjoy chick lit and women's fiction novels.
More about the book...
In this novel, we meet Cara who is an up and coming florist in the Savannah area. Cara, as charming and feisty as she is, has dealt with many ups and downs when it comes to owning and operating her flower shop. This of course this is to be expected to someone who is fairly new to it, but somehow problems continue to arise, especially when she lands a fantastic opportunity to provide not only flowers to an exclusive family in town, but to help them plan the entire wedding. This sounds fantastic right? Especially considering she owes her overbearing father money that he lent her. But, with this opportunity comes a lot of jealousy from a rival. And things begin to unravel for Cara who only wants to do what she loves...
Jack Finnerty, a the sexy southern gentleman, is a well known and well liked contractor in the Savannah area. He and his brother Ryan restore historic homes for a living and are quite talented in doing so. Unfortunately for him, he comes with a little baggage when it comes to his golden doodle, and finds himself in a tricky situation when he accidentally takes the wrong dog home with him. Whose dog did he take? None other than the up and coming florist of Savannah who has more than enough on her plate already!
Will this chance meeting between the two end up in a whirlwind romance that is bound to last forever? Or will drama and personal hysterics be their demise? You'll have to read to find out!
Rating: 5 stars
November 1, 2014
If you like your chick lit to be of the Southern variety, then Mary Kay Andrews is definitely an author you might want to read. I've read everything she's written, well except for a few short holiday ebooks, and have enjoyed most of them. The stories will always include a number of very funny and quirky characters, some kind of mystery or calamity, and a heroine who always finds love with mister right by the end of the book. Light, fun, and breezy reads, and always a good way for me to take a recess from all the serious books I tend to read.
This one felt a bit rushed at the end though and got everything tied up way too quickly I thought. Was there a deadline looming? Was the the publisher breathing down the author's neck and demanding the book be finished ASAP? The last two chapters felt very rushed and had events and relationships happening between people that were not that believable. I thought maybe I skipped a chapter or something. I kept flipping the pages back and forth and wondering where the missing chapter went. Happy ending, but would have liked a whole lot more substance to it.
This one felt a bit rushed at the end though and got everything tied up way too quickly I thought. Was there a deadline looming? Was the the publisher breathing down the author's neck and demanding the book be finished ASAP? The last two chapters felt very rushed and had events and relationships happening between people that were not that believable. I thought maybe I skipped a chapter or something. I kept flipping the pages back and forth and wondering where the missing chapter went. Happy ending, but would have liked a whole lot more substance to it.
October 14, 2018
Mary Kay Andrews. You did it again. And in my humble opinion. You did it best. I loved this high drama wedding story.
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What is it about weddings? I love them. Love reading about them. Going to them. Vicariously planning them. I think I should have been a wedding planner some days 😂. But then I remember...I don’t like people that much and unfortunately they are a requirement in the profession.
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The characters were incredibly likable and who doesn’t love a sweet dog meet cute?
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This story takes place deep in Savanah Georgia and all the Southern drama was exactly what the doctor ordered for me. The steam level was just enough. If you are a fan of wedding drama. Romance. A lil’ steam... This is the book for you!
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Personal opinion...this is my favorite MKA.
April 26, 2024
This book was just ok. I liked the main character Cara most of the time but she had a lot of moments where I found her really annoying. The story was a bit predictable but I did enjoy the banter between Cara and Jack. I didn’t enjoy the side conflicts involving the assistant Bert or the ex-girlfriend Zoey; Zoey was especially over the top, like not even believable. The ending feels rather abrupt. The epilogue tries to wrap it all up nicely but there’s still loose ends. This is ok for a quick, easy read.
September 21, 2017
Some fun chic lit combining wedding planning, historical construction, and the south.
Read
June 23, 2014Mark your calendars for June 3, 2014 - You want this book!
Save the Date was pure delight. If you love weddings and novels that revolve around them, then this is THE novel for you. Savannah florist Cara Kryzik is struggling to keep her floral shop afloat and pay back her father the money she borrowed to help her business. Life hasn't been easy. Her husband cheated on her, she faces some extremely demanding brides and mothers of the bride, and even a step-mom that will make you want to rip your hair out.
As Cara struggles with her business, she experiences many challenges, including a competitive florist who is out for revenge when he loses a big wedding and Jack, a good looking, dog-nabbing guy who keeps bumping into Cara at weddings. Their chemistry is palatable and delicious. But they have plenty of challenges. One of the things I love about Jack is his profession. He remodels and renovates old buildings, and I love how Mary Kay integrated this into the novel.
Save the Date is filled with plenty of Southern charm. I had no problem imagining the lovely estates and the area where Cara's shop is set. The description of her garden was easy to see in my mind, so much so that I could almost smell the flowers. Without a doubt, readers will cheer for and relish in the relationship between Jack and Cara. There are lots of fantastic secondary characters, many are brides, grooms, and others connected to wedding parties. Some are easy to deal with, others are nightmares, including Cullen Kane, Cara's biggest competitor. It takes a special breed to deal with the kind of pressure that comes with putting together a wedding that makes all parties happy.
Oh, and I can't forget to mention Cara's dog Poppy, a Goldendoodle, and Jack's dog, Shaz, who also is a Goldendoodle. The fact that they both have the same time of dog leads to some pretty funny moments.
Definitely save some time to read Save the Date. It's the next best thing to attending a wedding for someone you love. :D It's a satisfying, enjoyable, quick read with likable characters!
Thank you so much St. Martin's Press for the ARC copy for review.
Save the Date was pure delight. If you love weddings and novels that revolve around them, then this is THE novel for you. Savannah florist Cara Kryzik is struggling to keep her floral shop afloat and pay back her father the money she borrowed to help her business. Life hasn't been easy. Her husband cheated on her, she faces some extremely demanding brides and mothers of the bride, and even a step-mom that will make you want to rip your hair out.
As Cara struggles with her business, she experiences many challenges, including a competitive florist who is out for revenge when he loses a big wedding and Jack, a good looking, dog-nabbing guy who keeps bumping into Cara at weddings. Their chemistry is palatable and delicious. But they have plenty of challenges. One of the things I love about Jack is his profession. He remodels and renovates old buildings, and I love how Mary Kay integrated this into the novel.
Save the Date is filled with plenty of Southern charm. I had no problem imagining the lovely estates and the area where Cara's shop is set. The description of her garden was easy to see in my mind, so much so that I could almost smell the flowers. Without a doubt, readers will cheer for and relish in the relationship between Jack and Cara. There are lots of fantastic secondary characters, many are brides, grooms, and others connected to wedding parties. Some are easy to deal with, others are nightmares, including Cullen Kane, Cara's biggest competitor. It takes a special breed to deal with the kind of pressure that comes with putting together a wedding that makes all parties happy.
Oh, and I can't forget to mention Cara's dog Poppy, a Goldendoodle, and Jack's dog, Shaz, who also is a Goldendoodle. The fact that they both have the same time of dog leads to some pretty funny moments.
Definitely save some time to read Save the Date. It's the next best thing to attending a wedding for someone you love. :D It's a satisfying, enjoyable, quick read with likable characters!
Thank you so much St. Martin's Press for the ARC copy for review.
August 18, 2014
I admit it! I read chick lit and I like it! But I am very picky about what I read because my mind warps easily. Mary Kay Andrews writes above-average, easy-reading, fun-to-read books that are a break from all the deeper genres. Save the Date was one of her better books even though it followed the usual plot line of "single woman runs her own business in spite of diabolical person against her; woman meets handsome man who aggravates her but ends up her soulmate in the end." I don't mean to make fun because I am all for woman power and books that show woman prevailing against all odds. I send up a cheer when I see that a new Trochek/Mary Kay Andrews book is coming out because I know I will have a great couple of evenings curled up totally lost in a good romance. Save the Date is about a talented florist operating out of a 300-square foot space on Jones Street in Savannah, specializing in breathtaking wedding flowers. Her mishaps with her goldendoodle Poppy lead to unexpected encounters that bifurcate into even more surprising twists and turns. When an unethical competitor moves to Savannah who tries to sabbotage Cara at every turn, the plot twists, but not so much that you want to give up on the book. Andrews is skilled in knowing when enough is enough. Housework suffered until I finished Save the Date.
March 15, 2019
I've really enjoyed listening to this book on audio CD while driving the past few weeks. I like the author's books because of their setting and this one was primarily located in Savannah. Cara is a floral designer who has had a run of bad luck in life, love and business. Just when things have started to pick up for her, it seems like everything is crashing down again.
I admire her character very much and how she treats others, even those who have wronged her. The other characters such as her assistant, her "main" bride, Brooke, her love interest Jake and her floral enemy Cullen Kane are all memorable. My favorite part was when she travels to Cumberland Island, Georgia, which is now a part of the National Park Service. It has miles of undisturbed beaches, wild horses and is a nature lover's paradise. It is only accessible by boat; the park service provides a ferry service twice a day. I've been there four times in my travels and took the time to go back through my pictures while reading because of all the wonderful memories the book evoked. If you are going to listen to the book, the reader was pleasant-sounding.
I admire her character very much and how she treats others, even those who have wronged her. The other characters such as her assistant, her "main" bride, Brooke, her love interest Jake and her floral enemy Cullen Kane are all memorable. My favorite part was when she travels to Cumberland Island, Georgia, which is now a part of the National Park Service. It has miles of undisturbed beaches, wild horses and is a nature lover's paradise. It is only accessible by boat; the park service provides a ferry service twice a day. I've been there four times in my travels and took the time to go back through my pictures while reading because of all the wonderful memories the book evoked. If you are going to listen to the book, the reader was pleasant-sounding.
June 7, 2014
I love Mary Kay Andrews. Her new book each year kicks off my summer reading season. Unfortunately, "Save the Date" is a complete bummer. Where's the sass? The fun? The funny? The rollicking adventure? Not with this one. All the characters were not interesting, at all. I found the book maddeningly sad and desperate. I would recommend you put this in the bottom of your summer reading list.
August 9, 2016
3.0 to 3.5 TICKLED PINK STARS!
Cute and well written book. Liked reading more about Savannah and Cara's personal struggles than the wedding and floral details. Perfect read for June – the traditional wedding month.
Cute and well written book. Liked reading more about Savannah and Cara's personal struggles than the wedding and floral details. Perfect read for June – the traditional wedding month.
July 16, 2021
Escape into the world of Cara, a newcomer to the Savannah florist scene. We meet Cara at a critical juncture in her life where business is booming yet she has several challenges threatening to bring her down. Although Cara isn't interested in love, she is in the business of helping those who are in love. She keeps running into a guest at most of the weddings she decorates, who may help her to believe love could be in her future. This book was just perfect for a fast, summer read that keeps your attention with a compelling plot line, love, loss, and self discovery. Anyone who is a fan of Mary Kay Andrews will not be disappointed with this book!
Find it today: https://ent.sharelibraries.info/clien... /one
Ashley C. / Milton Public Library #CheckOutMPL
Find it today: https://ent.sharelibraries.info/clien... /one
Ashley C. / Milton Public Library #CheckOutMPL
September 10, 2017
Ein Wohlfühlbuch voller toller Blumen und südstaatenflair 🌹🌷💐 mit viel Liebe und den nötigen Intrigen ❤️💔
July 31, 2021
I love reading almost anything by Mary Kay Andrews and this book was no different. This book has believable characters , great storytelling, suspense and drama, love and sadness, joy and heartbreak and comedy too boot. I can't wait to read another of her novels.
June 10, 2014
Cara Kryzik wants nothing more than to make her Savannah floral shop a success, but she hits obstacles every way she turns. Her father, the Colonel, is demanding she immediately pay him the money she owes him or return to live with him in her hometown of Ohio. Her two-timing ex-husband Leo wants to give their marriage another try. Her assistant is slacking off on the job. Her landlord isn’t answering her calls even though her shop (and her apartment above it) is as hot as can be and in desperate need of new air conditioning. To make matters even worse, a handsome contractor has kidnapped her beloved dog. To say it has been a bad day, would be putting it mildly.
The good thing is that she has many bridal jobs coming up. The bad thing is that she has to deal with some pretty demanding brides and their mothers. When one of her wealthiest brides goes missing, Cara races the clock to find her so she doesn’t lose her highest paying job. To add to her misery, someone is trying to sabotage her business. Most people would have given up, but Cara isn't most people and she intends to fight for her dream.
Readers will cheer for the underdog, Cara, and want to see her succeed. They will also want to see her get a chance at her own “happily-ever-after” in this light romance. This book makes for the perfect beach or vacation read. The characters are endearing and the storyline moves along at a fast pace. I even had a few tears in my eyes when I read the last page and that doesn't happen often to me.
I’ve read this author’s work before and always find her books enjoyable. This one is no exception. It’s a “feel good” type of book.
FTC Disclosure: NetGalley provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
The good thing is that she has many bridal jobs coming up. The bad thing is that she has to deal with some pretty demanding brides and their mothers. When one of her wealthiest brides goes missing, Cara races the clock to find her so she doesn’t lose her highest paying job. To add to her misery, someone is trying to sabotage her business. Most people would have given up, but Cara isn't most people and she intends to fight for her dream.
Readers will cheer for the underdog, Cara, and want to see her succeed. They will also want to see her get a chance at her own “happily-ever-after” in this light romance. This book makes for the perfect beach or vacation read. The characters are endearing and the storyline moves along at a fast pace. I even had a few tears in my eyes when I read the last page and that doesn't happen often to me.
I’ve read this author’s work before and always find her books enjoyable. This one is no exception. It’s a “feel good” type of book.
FTC Disclosure: NetGalley provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 13, 2018
Oh boy. It's been awhile since I picked up something so firmly and obviously in the chick lit genre, but since I'm getting married this year, I was in the mood for something light and wedding-themed. That was a mistake.
I like the Savannah setting, and all the details that were included about the culture and the area. However, OF COURSE the main character (Cara) is a "Yankee" and doesn't feel like she fits in. And OF COURSE the other women in the novel, brides, mothers, mothers-in-law, played in to typical Southern women stereotypes. And OF COURSE Cara has an ex-husband who shows up wanting her back. (Not to mention the SAME THING happens with the ex-girlfriend of Cara's new love interest.)
I think the most unbelievable character to me was that of the rival florist. I mean, this man LITERALLY committed crimes (theft, trespassing) in order to try and sabotage Cara's much smaller, struggling florist business, when, by all accounts, his own business was a freaking EMPIRE. And don't get me started on the way that gay men are portrayed here.
I made it to the end, and it is a fast read. I wouldn't pick up another one, though.
Totally aside from the review of the book's content, a word of warning: with all the struggles and problems that Cara and many of the brides in this book had to go through, this book gave me anxiety about my own wedding planning!! This could definitely be a personal problem, but future brides, beware!
I like the Savannah setting, and all the details that were included about the culture and the area. However, OF COURSE the main character (Cara) is a "Yankee" and doesn't feel like she fits in. And OF COURSE the other women in the novel, brides, mothers, mothers-in-law, played in to typical Southern women stereotypes. And OF COURSE Cara has an ex-husband who shows up wanting her back. (Not to mention the SAME THING happens with the ex-girlfriend of Cara's new love interest.)
I think the most unbelievable character to me was that of the rival florist. I mean, this man LITERALLY committed crimes (theft, trespassing) in order to try and sabotage Cara's much smaller, struggling florist business, when, by all accounts, his own business was a freaking EMPIRE. And don't get me started on the way that gay men are portrayed here.
I made it to the end, and it is a fast read. I wouldn't pick up another one, though.
Totally aside from the review of the book's content, a word of warning: with all the struggles and problems that Cara and many of the brides in this book had to go through, this book gave me anxiety about my own wedding planning!! This could definitely be a personal problem, but future brides, beware!
May 9, 2017
I enjoyed this read I don't want to spoil it but it's a very good book.
January 9, 2015
Always a fun read from this author. Good when all you want is to curl up with a hot drink and a comfy blanket and relax.
September 2, 2014
The ending was a little bit too wrapped up for me....too close. Otherwise very cliche' chick lit...
June 12, 2021
I am not sure where I got this book or how long I have even had it but FINALLY I got around to reading it. :) I know I probably picked it out because of the cover-that sounds like something I would do and the cover makes me feel happy. Fortunately, I did not steer myself wrong this time and the book was just as good as I thought it was going to be... A sappy love story full of growth and affection and just plain happiness for the most part...what's not to like? This is definitely an author I will read more of as I find new books...
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