Whenever I read a novel there are three things I want—strong characters, witty dialogue, and a good plot. And Jenny B. Jones is an author I can count on to deliver. Her latest book, Save the Date, boosts a rich cast of characters, a charming romance, and a plot that twists and turns like an old country road. You enjoy the drive, but, man you weren’t expecting the cow in the middle of the road. It’s funny and memorable.
Jones’ latest heroine, Lucy Wiltshire, is a compassionate 30-something who works at a non-profit shelter for girls aging out of the foster care system. When financial ruin is about to close Caring Hands for good, Lucy is desperate to find a way to save the house. Alex Sinclair, former football player, and heir to the Sinclair Enterprise fortune needs a gimmick to get him the votes he needs to win his bid for Congress. Alex offers Lucy the keys to Caring Hands and in exchange, Lucy is to be Alex’s pretend fiancée until after the election. Lucy saves her non-profit and Alex gets his Congressional seat.
Besides lying to all their friends and family, there’s another problem with Lucy and Alex’s plan—they can’t stand each other. In true Jenny Jones style, Lucy and Alex have some hilarious spats, throw out zingers, and yet they somehow make a great couple. Of course, Jones doesn’t just focus on Lucy and Alex. Characters from both Lucy and Alex’s lives add charm and dimension to this book, which delves deeply into the emotional and spiritual lives of both character. In fact, I found myself more attached to the characters in Save the Date than in Jones’ previous book, Just Between You and Me (read review).
I really enjoyed Jenny B. Jones latest book, Save the Date. It’s spunky, yet it has depth beyond simple chick lit. The themes running through the book are many—regret, heartbreak, loss, pain along with the hope that can be found in God. Many of the characters are fighting mistakes and fears from their pasts, which threaten their futures. Jones effortlessly weaves spiritual insight into her book through sermons, private thoughts, and conversations; but not in a fake, cheesy way.
Save the Date is smart, sassy reading for anyone who enjoys curling up with a good book with lively characters, who are perfectly flawed, clumsy, and quirky. You know, people who are like us, but wittier.
Amy’s Score: 4.5
*Thanks to BookSneeze for my review copy of this book!*
She is Beloved 
can’t wait to pick up my copy! 🙂
Abbigail, you will LOVE it!
Sounds like a typical story I would enjoy 🙂