Destination Weddings and Other Disasters was such a sweet, satisfying surprise. It was a perfect palate cleanser after a couple of recent disappointments that I have had. M.C. Vaughan delivers a light, heartwarming enemies to lovers romance with a tropical twist and just enough spice to keep things interesting.

Julia and Carson are soon to be step siblings who share a messy high school past, where Carson was (in typical teenage boy fashion) an absolute jerk. Fast forward to adulthood, and fate throws them together to plan their parents' destination wedding in stunning Belize. What I loved most was how grounded this story felt despite the breezy, vacation like setting. Both leads work in similar industries like hospitality and event planning, and their dynamic felt like a genuine partnership. Neither character’s success eclipsed the other’s, which made their slow burn reconnection really worth the payoff.

Carson’s growth was particularly refreshing. He didn’t excuse or minimize his past behavior, but he owned it, apologized sincerely, and let Julia decide how and when to forgive. And she didn’t rush into it either. That element of emotional maturity made the romance even more rewarding.

I’ve never been to Belize but M.C. Vaughan painted such a vivid, immersive picture and now I really want to go. From the cuisine and music to the natural beauty and cultural nuances, it felt like a love letter to the country. You could tell the author either has deep personal experience or did some seriously thoughtful research, which I appreciate. Her details were spot on and sometimes, authors throw this stuff in but then it doesn’t sound right or come off right because they didn’t actually know about the country or its culture.

All in all, this book was exactly what I needed. It was fun, flirty, and full of charm. If you’re into enemies to lovers with heart, destination weddings, and a splash of tropical spice, this one’s for you.

Thank you to NetGalley, M.C. Vaughan, Harlequin for the eARC of this book.