Thanks to Fable, Avon Books, and Tessa Bailey for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review

Bailey’s unique twist on the marriage-of-convenience trope makes it impossible to put “Unfortunately Yours” down! 

 

The second novel in the “A Vine Mess” duology alternates between the perspectives of Natalie Vos, an investment manager and Napa heiress, and August Coates, a retired Navy SEAL. Their headstrong personalities result in the two constantly bickering, goading each other on, and playfully bantering in an effort to avoid coming to terms with their attraction for each other. There was never a moment when I wasn’t entertained by their relationship dynamic. Additionally, being able to read from the viewpoints of both love interests allowed me to fully explore the depth of characters’ feelings for one another and how those feelings develop, making both points-of-view equally compelling in my eyes. 

 

Like Bailey’s other novels, her characters are complex with their own inner conflicts that they need to work through as the storyline progresses. Bailey is very thoughtful in introducing the reader to the details surrounding August’s grief and her portrayal of his coping mechanisms. I appreciate her taking her time showing August working through each stage as he comes to terms with the loss of his best friend. 

 

Natalie’s struggles are first touched upon in “Secretly Yours,” but fully realized in “Unfortunately Yours.” All her life, Natalie has wanted to be noticed for her accomplishments. Instead, she has had to live in her family’s shadow. Subsequently, her feelings of rejection are deeply rooted and she is fearful to drop the armor around her heart. 

 

I loved watching their fake marriage turn into something real and lasting the moment Natalie and August began supporting each other as they worked through their respective conflicts. The safety and love they ultimately find in each other is absolutely everything!