Everything feel a little terrible lately so I was very happy to get to dive into this feel good book.
Meg is getting married to the love of her life, Hannah. But casting a rather dark shadow over what should be one of the happiest days is her parents and the general sense of disapproval they have for Meg and her “lifestyle”. After her mum stands her up at the florists Meg breaks down in tears on a bench outside. David has been running his flower shop for years, and loves people. When he sees a young woman crying outside his shop he tries to help. Meg’s story about her parents disapproval hits a nerve from years back when he came out to his own parents. Deciding Meg deserves support for her wedding he offers to be her person as she plans her wedding. As the wedding draws nearer Meg will find joy in planning her special day while also struggling with her family. David will see some of his own fears and insecurities play out in his new friend and will possibly have to confront some of his own skeletons.
This was a beautiful book about love. From romantic love to friendship to community. The strength of found families plays a huge role in this cozy novel. This is the kind of book I needed to read right now, it beautifully showcases that love wins, and kindness build community.
Thank you so much to @netgalley and @avonbooks for letting me have an advanced copy for review.
Look for #thestandindad April 24, 2025
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Gosh what a read and it gave you plenty to think about. Meg and Hannah are getting married and you follow their story and a community . Prejudice in any form is just terrible. It was a lovely read. Told in chapters between two of the main character, not my favourite way of reading but it worked.A lovely ending.

A lovely and heart-warming book about intergenerational friendship, chosen or found family, and an inclusive community. Indeed, just because someone might be slightly different (for want of a better word) doesn't make them other, or even a hassle. There is no such thing as normal.

That said, with the current state of the world, it is easy to feel less or not welcome even if you know you are not. Therefore this book deserves to be on my being-good-enough shelf here on Goodreads.

Indeed, of parents you expect them to be the adult, they are the grown-ups who should be looking after their children, to have their back when facing difficulties. But you don't have to put up with being treated poorly, because no one deserves that - no matter the reason of a disagreement (in my case being ill with ME turning my life upside down).