I don’t typically write reviews of things I don’t enjoy, but I did originally get this as an ARC (thanks NetGalley!) and even though the release date has long passed, it’s only fair to keep up my end of the deal.

I could maybe push this up to a 1.5 star rating, but honestly, I did not think this was good. I’m not a huge romance reader, but I still like enough that the obvious plot, the tropes and the “twist” weren’t a problem for me. Sadly, I just found the writing wasn’t great. Lots of things are over-explained to the reader (while some things are simply not explained at all) and everything feels very inconsistent. One minute Jessica feels indifferent at best towards her sister, the next she’s loved and happy to see her. Her boss is described as misogynistic about a thousand times in one chapter. She says herself quite early on that she thinks maybe her high school experience can’t be categorized with bullying, but then continues to say that throughout the rest of the book anyway. She sees Tanner’s “first real smile” at least twice in one weekend.

A lot of the dialogue felt forced and truly just not how people speak to each other. At one point, in a crowded club on New Year’s Eve we read: "When we moved a few years ago, there were really only super exclusionary 'gay guy' bars," he said with air quotes. "So we had to come check out this amazing new queer space!"

The sex scene was… uncomfortable and made me stop to google the author to check I wasn’t reading something written by a teenage boy.

The reason it’s getting any stars from me at all is because I found a few of the other characters so endearing. Tanner’s life and her friends seem much more interesting than Jessica’s and I kind of wish this had been her book and not revolving around the supposed fuckboi. Bernie was great, and not getting to spend more time with Alex feels like such a huge disappointment.

I would like an explanation as to why they’re still friends with Kayla or confirmation that they ditched her immediately after the wedding.

Ultimately, really disappointing and unimpressive for me personally.

Good book. Was a quick and easy read. This is an enemies to lover's romance with a twist. Jessica and Tanner are the main characters and seemingly don't like each, but have to endure each others company because Jessica's sister is getting married and Tanner is a bridesmaid in the wedding, while Jessica is a reluctant participant, because her mother is holding her trust fund hostage unless she attends all the activities leading up to her sister wedding. Also, Jessica hates weddings and this is where the mayhem begins. I really liked all the characters, but I thought the mother was a little too harsh for my liking. Other than that this was a nice slow burn romance with some funny, drama filled moments thrown in. I would definitely recommend this book too my friends and family and I look forward to what's next from this author.

Jessica's sister Bernie is getting married and their mother expects jessica to be the perfect sister and perform her bridemaid duties. The thing is Jessica isn't sure what those duties entail and honestly she's not really interested in these archaic 'rituals'. I felt a connection with Jess on her stance on all the wedding related things. It sounds terrible and I get that Jessica is reluctant to fullfil her part of the deal. But her mother holds her inheritance hostage so she agrees to do all that is expected of her.

Besides the dreadful bridal tasks there is also Tanner. Jessica's former crush/friend/nemesis?! They have a past and it's nog a good one. Tanner is Bernie's best friend so Jessica knows she won't be able to avoid her although she's trying.

This story started out so strong for me and I could not put the book down as I wanted to see how the story evolved. It did drop a bit for me towards the end and during the wedding so 4 stars for me.

An ARC was provided to me via Netgalley in return of an honest review.

Spencer Greene is a new author for me and I’d put their latest work, Never a Bridesmaid, squarely in the middle of the road/meh category. There were things I liked about it and things I didn’t, but it’s on the shorter side and overall it was a pleasant way to spend an evening.

The positives to this book include a strong and easy to read writing style. The text is well edited and there were no context errors that you find with weak writing and the story was well-paced. I had a good sense of who Jessica was and how her high school experience affected her, especially her coming out.

That being said, it just felt like something was missing. There was a lot of history between Jessica and Tanner and a lot of present day angst as well but something about it didn’t pack the emotional punch I expected it to. I think part of that had to due with the lack of chemistry I felt between the two leads. There is one, admittedly hot, on-page sex scene but it felt somewhat out of the blue and personally I prefer more longing and build up.

Overall I would say this is a decent read and I’d recommend it for people who are fans of the author and second chance or enemies to lovers trope.

I received an ARC from Netgalley and all opinions are my own.

Never a Bridesmaid has potential, and it did keep me engaged (pardon the pun) from start to finish. But, there were serious topics in play, and seriously bad behavior by certain characters, that never ended up being confronted head-on, as the story sequel into something closer to a standard romance by the end.

Thank you Spencer Greene, Bold Strokes Books, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.

Pretty good slightly second chance romance. Basically both characters had crushes on each other during high school, but nothing came from it because of a big outing.

I liked both Jessica and Tanner, and even Bernie (Jessica's sister). Some of the other characters, in particular Kayla, were a little cliche. Didn't take me totally away from the story, but I would have liked a little more from her as the classic "homophobic childhood friend." I also feel like Bernie would have been done with that nonsense when she became an adult since both her sister and best friend were lesbians, so I was surprised she hadn't dropped Kayla as a friend a long time ago.

I wasn't surprised by the "twist" that was revealed, but again, it didn't stop me from enjoying the relationship that was building between Tanner and Jessica. Could have used a little more heat...but overall a decent read.

Lots of feelings and deep emotions in this book. A good story overall though and an amazing trope! Would recommend this if it is the genre you like!

Hilariously funny!

Jessica reluctantly agrees to be a part of her sister’s wedding, despite Tanner being the maid of honor. They knew each other in high-school, and Jessica blames Tanner for the difficult time she had and upon meeting again the tension still exists. As fate seems to keep throwing them into situations together throughout the lead up events to wedding, Jessica and Tanner are forced to try and get along only to find something more between them.

Loved this! Right from the start it had all those typical rom-com moments of hilarity, but slightly heightened. I could literally hear the whine and exasperation in Jessica’s words as she dealt with her mum, her sister, and Tanner, along with a whole crowd of those she went to school with that just made life hard. Resentful, she has her guard up for the longest time, but eventually she can’t avoid Tanner and truths start coming out that neither of them expected.

I loved how Spencer explored the comedy side of this story. It had me laughing and loving all the tension and slight bickering that ensued. It was the epitome of the situation when you are roped into doing something you really don’t want to. To begin with I was totally on Jessica’s side about all of this. It seemed really unfair and Tanner and the rest of the bridal party were annoying! However there were these odd moments when Tanner came across as kind and friendly, a really good person and I began wondering if there was something more to their story. Tanner was such a great character, the life and soul in some cases, but grounded and level headed, taking time to understand Jessica’s feelings and accepting of her part in what happened back in the day at school to make her feel that way, so she completely endeared herself to me.

A great story, very enjoyable, with a bit of a second chance romance feel.

"Never a Bridesmaid" by Spencer Greene is a humorous and entertaining take on the enemies-to-lovers trope. Jessica Monroe's disdain for weddings, her sister's friends, and especially for Tanner Caldwell, her sister's maid of honor, sets the stage for a compelling romantic conflict. Forced into being a bridesmaid under familial pressure, Jessica's journey to navigate through wedding events leads her to confront her unresolved high school history with Tanner.

Greene adeptly captures the tension and banter between the two protagonists, infusing the story with humor and wit. The plot unfolds with a mix of obligatory heteronormativity and unexpected self-discovery, making the novel an engaging read for fans of romantic comedies.

I rated "Never a Bridesmaid" 3 stars because, while it delivers on its promise of a fun and trope-driven romance, it may not offer a deeply nuanced exploration of its characters. The development of Jessica and Tanner's relationship, while enjoyable, follows a somewhat predictable trajectory. Nevertheless, the novel provides a lighthearted escape with moments of genuine charm and connection between the lead characters.

This book had potential. Anyone who regularly reads AITAH on Reddit has seen similar stories appear, with various situations where they’re around school bullies (I'm not sure what exactly the bullying was though tbh, besides the main betrayal), there's also a lot about weddings, and I eat it up every time (including when planning my own). It just didn't quite deliver.

I immediately felt the writing was somewhat cringey, and the characters were 99% stereotypes. I cannot believe Jessica didn't know anything at all about weddings/activities - you learn things by osmosis from just existing in the world, but it may have been one more attempt at the 'not like other girls' thing she had going on. I also felt her mother forcing her into this situation was awful - whilst we don't know all the details from high school, Jessica is still hurt and traumatised from it, it's effected her whole life, and her main support is now dead (oh look, it's me). I related to Jessica - dark, alternative, lots of trauma, close to your dad who has now died, mum will never get it, didn't come out til uni, etc (hell, even the name) BUT without knowing all of her backstory it was a bit difficult to tell if she was clinging on or could move past it, or even the full impact on her, and I didn't relate/agree with some of the things she did/said (eg walking out instead of confrontation - it felt forced, and I'd want answers. I'd also not let my mum pull the woe is me act anymore).

Aside from Jessica, Tanner was okay. I didn't really feel the build up, really know why they were attacted to each other, and the ending was rushed. Alex seemed nice but we didn't get much about her, Kelsey was clearly a mega bitch, and Bryce was just the token gay man. Everything that came out of his mouth was cringey and why are you friends with someone who'd send you home if they didn't like your outfit???? Her family was clearly a bit strained but trying, and clearly very straight, and possibly the most realistic. Although the secret reveal was a dick move (I'd be majorly pissed about it, that it was a hidden, and that a certain person was still around), it also felt convenient so there was nothing in the way of Jessica and Tanner's relationship anymore. Also, it was NOT the time or place. I felt this needed an epilogue or just more than them 'getting together' for the book to have been worth it. When it went to 'about the author' I legit said "is that it???". Overall, I just wanted more, but it was an easy read. Thank you to netgalley for the arc.

Never a Bridesmaid is an enemies-to-lovers sapphic romance that is so easy to devour! 



We follow our main character, Jessica, as her inheritance is held hostage by her mother until Jess fulfills all the requirements of being her sister’s Bridesmaid. That would be enough to send anti-patriarchal and anti-traditional Jessica into a rage - and that’s before she realizes the other bridesmaids will be some unfavorable characters from her past. 


One of the things I really appreciated about this book is how it explored stereotypes both in-and-out of the queer community (yes, even lgbt+ people make false assumptions sometimes! It’s real and true and deserves to be addressed and worked on!) and really delved into how problems aren’t always black-and-white. I enjoyed the confidence, growth, and changes the characters go through in both relation to themselves and the other characters. PLUS - we always give bonus points for WLW diversity!

However, I do also feel like the plot was rather predictable and Jessica was rather… unlikable as far as protagonists go. Some of the problems and thought-patterns felt a little juvenile. I also feel like the cover (with shadowed eyes, strong, bold lines and patterns) set me up to expect something much darker and mysterious than the story I got. That being said - it was a very quick and easy read so I was able to concede to those flaws and ignore them for the bigger picture - which is that this is just a cute, escapist, wlw romance attempting to tie in some critical themes. It may not have been the most revolutionary read, but it worked for me to put aside qualms for a minute to enjoy the process of reading and see some new POVs.

Jessica hates weddings, and is not into the pomp and circumstance, but her sister is getting married, and her trust is on the line. Jessica ends up participating in the wedding events-bachelorette, bridal shower, etc, with her sister and her sister's friends, including Tanner, the woman who outed her in high school. Jessica never forgave Tanner, and felt it was even more of a blow that Tanner herself is a lesbian and was out at the time. But, Jessica and Tanner have major chemistry over the months leading up to the wedding, but both have trouble expressing it. I really liked this book, it was a quick read, it touched on a lot of important LGBTQ+ issues, and it was a cute story and romance!

I think this book suffered from something I very rarely say is a problem: it's too short. So much is trying to be done all at once in order to race to the end and it makes what would be an enjoyable time seem rushed and lacklustre when the big twist occurs.

Never a Bridesmaid by Spencer Greene follows Jessica Monroe as she reluctantly becomes a bridesmaid in her sister's wedding. Jessica is not a fan of weddings, her sister's friends, or the maid of honor, Tanner Caldwell. She vowed never to speak to Tanner again after high school, but when her mother threatens to withhold her inheritance, Jessica agrees to participate in all of her sister's pre-wedding events. As the wedding gets closer, Jessica's hatred for Tanner becomes more complicated. She realizes that it may not be just hatred that she feels for him, but something more. Jessica's character is relatable and well-developed. She is a strong and independent woman who is not afraid to speak her mind. However, she also has her flaws, such as her stubbornness and her tendency to judge others. Tanner is also a well-developed character. He is charming and confident, but he can also be arrogant and dismissive. Despite their differences, Jessica and Tanner have a undeniable chemistry. The tension between them is palpable, and it is clear that they are both attracted to each other. The novel is well-written and engaging. The plot is well-paced, and the characters are well-developed. Greene does a great job of creating a realistic and believable world for her characters. The novel is also funny and heartwarming. It is a great choice for readers who are looking for a light and romantic read.

Thank you to Netgalley and Bold Stokes Books for this ARC of ‘Never a Bridesmaid’ by Spencer Greene

Firstly, I do apologise for the delay in posting my review! The last time I’d checked there was no deadline date set.
Any LGBTQ+ book is a must read in my eyes! I also love a good slow burn romance so this was a win before I opened it! This story shows how people grow and evolve with time and I just loved it!

Never a Bridesmaid is slow burn sapphic romance that's a quick and easy read. It's a good representation of the LGBTQ+ community. very enjoyable, I recommend.


Thank You NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for this ARC.

Jessica finds out that her sister is getting married and wants her to be in her wedding party. When she doesn't contact her sister, her mother gets involved. She tells Jessica that if she doesn't go, she will not receive her trust fund. A cheap shot, but Jessica does give in. After all, she has plans for open a bookstore and she needs that fund to do so.
What Jessica doesn't agree to is to see her sister's maid of honor, Tanner. She remembers her not fondly from high school. She cannot stand her and is certain that she has not changed.
However, Tanner has changed. She is not the know-it-all that Jessica remembers. Despite not wanting to like her, Jessica does see a different side of her. And when Tanner saves everyone from a mountain lion, that changes everything.
I would recommend.

I liked the story but didn’t really care for Jessica. Was a quick, easy read.
“Just because some is from your past, doesn’t mean they have to be in your future”

I was given an ARC by the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Never a Bridesmaid by Spencer Greene is a contemporary Sapphic romance where Jessica, an out Lesbian living in DC who abhors a lot of traditional structures, is given an ultimatum: be a bridesmaid at her sister’s wedding or lose access to her trust. Jessica agrees to be a bridesmaid but the maid of honor is Tanner, her sister’s best friend and the girl who outed Jessica to their high school.

The book delves in homophobia and preconceived notions as well stereotyping inside and outside of the Queer community. Jessica is a bit rigid in some of her views of her own community and has some black and white thinking of her own, thinking which Tanner pushes back on. Tanner is a lesbian herself and has been out most of her life, but works for a Christian mommy blogging site.

I think what I really loved was how much the characters’ flaws were on display, showcasing various opinions within the Queer community as well as opinions on the community from people not inside of it. It’s also nice to see a Sapphic who has a more androgynous style, likes femmes, and experiences body dysmorphia be the lead of a romance.

I would recommend this to readers looking for Sapphic romance and readers looking for an exploration of the Queer community in a Sapphic context

So this was a slow burn for me. It took forever for me to get into it…but once I was there, I was in it for Tanner and Jessica. What a fun sapphic romance that’s also a little cliche. But it’s probably one of the first cliched sapphic romances I have read (and I’ve read a few *wink wink*). I was definitely mad it was over. I want more!

I feel like I would have enjoyed this title more if it was told from Jessica's perspective in first person. I feel like some feelings were missing just because there was a third party narrator rather than Jessica telling the story herself. But overall, I did enjoy the story. I felt like all of the characters from the LGBTQ+ community were well represented and accurate to what I have seen from the community as an LGBTQ+ identifying individual.