Picnic Perfect introduces us to Warren McGuire and Katy Horn. Warren is a workaholic who never takes a vacation. Yet here he is preparing for a trip to Kismet Cove. It's at his brother's insistence that he goes, and it isn't until he arrives that he finds out about the singles week aspect of his trip. Shortly after arriving to the bar, Katy approaches him. Warren doesn't remember her, but Katy remembers him. After all they both stood up for Warner and Babs at their wedding. It's just that Warren was more focused on work than being fully present at the wedding. One thing leads to another, and these two have an unforgettable week together. This week is filled with Warren stepping outside his comfort zone, trying new things, and maybe just maybe falling for Katy. Until a notification on his phone puts a hitch in the romance.
If you follow me on Goodreads, then you'll know that I had mixed feelings about Picnic Perfect. I was so excited because it's a new book from Xavier Neal, and I adore a lot of the books that she creates. The premise was so good. The teaser alone drew me in! I really liked Katy's character, as well as her chosen profession. She just seems like a wonderful person, full of humor, and extremely caring. Then there's Warren...he and I didn't vibe and I can't fully explain why that is. I think a lot of that had to do with how much of a workaholic he is, and how in his head he is. He isn't really focusing on the people/world around him, he's distracted by his job, and the fact that he wants to be in a relationship. Yet because he's so focused on his job, he isn't doing what he could to find said relationship. I don't know, I just didn't care for him. He wasn't the strong male character that I am used to reading about in Xavier's books. I will say that I did enjoy the dates that Warren and Katy went on. From the big top to the arcade to everything in between, it was just fun. Plus it pushed Warren out of his safety net, so that was nice.
The aspect of the book that I really struggled with, and what brought my rating down, was the breaking of the 4th wall. Well, no, it's not really that. I can handle the characters talking to me I guess. I think that it is more so that there was so much of it. I'd rather read about the interactions between our couple, and the side characters, than have the characters talking to me. Personally I'm not a fan of this format. Had the "conversation" been an internal dialogue that might have helped, but it was still over the top. There were times that it was excessive, and I struggled to focus on that. At times I did end up reading these 4th wall moments as internal dialogue, but it still wasn't my favorite.
I did choose to give Picnic Perfect 3 stars. I personally don't feel that the story really warrants more than that at this time. It felt a bit rushed, and not very finessed. And I know I was reading an advanced copy, so some things might have changed from the time I received the ARC until publication date.
As always, I do recommend the book because you may feel differently about it. Reading any book is a choice only you can make, and reviews shouldn't necessarily sway your decision one way or another. If you enjoy rom-coms, opposites attract, and/or second chance romances, then give this book a read.
Thank you for taking time to read my thoughts.
Laura
3 influences.
2 opposites.
1 vacation.
When Warren McGuire and Katy Horn bump into each other for the first time since his youngest brother's wedding, the last thing he expects them to do is hook up.
It doesn't take long for his insecurities to appear; however, to his surprise, they don't send her running.
He doesn't send her running.
For once in his over-planned life, Warren may have actually found a woman who wants him as much as he wants her.
Too bad that it's only supposed to be a fling.
Too bad that they live in very separate states.
Too bad that they live totally different lives.
Will Warren do what it takes to make this unlikely match work for the long run, or will he leave it behind for something more picnic perfect?
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About the Author
Xavier Neal is a best-selling romance author who enjoys hopping from sub genre to sub genre like a game of Hopscotch she can't resist.
In between writing, she loves to read (everything from romance to self improvement books), watch movies (old and new), eat too much Tex-Mex (her Chuy's t-shirt collection is out of control), and watch AHL hockey games LIVE (preferably against the glass whenever possible).
She currently resides happily in Texas with her bearded husband "Lumberjack" and their two fur babies.
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