Book Review: Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams
As a fan of contemporary romance, I was immediately drawn to Practice Makes Perfect, the latest offering from Sarah Adams. The book’s premise—a small-town florist, Annie Walker, trying to find love with a tattooed bodyguard named Will Griffin—was enough to pique my interest. I love stories that blend sweetness with humor, and this one promised a delightful mix of both. After experiencing the charm of Adams’s previous book, I couldn’t resist diving into this sequel from the When in Rome series.
The story opens with Annie yearning for love but plagued by self-doubt after overhearing a disparaging comment during her most recent date. It’s a relatable start that many readers can connect with. In her quest for romance, she enlists the help of Will, who is back in town temporarily as a bodyguard. Despite his initial reluctance, Will’s character quickly shows depth and an unexpected warmth. This relationship dynamic—"friends to lovers" combined with a "fake dating" element—creates plenty of entertaining moments filled with witty banter and relatable ups and downs.
One of the biggest highlights for me was the genuine and layered character development that both Annie and Will undergo. As the story unfolds, Annie transforms from a timid flower shop owner into a more confident woman who begins to grasp her place in the world. Will, on the other hand, battles his own emotional unavailability while serving as a tutor in Annie’s dating escapades. The beautiful growth they experience, both as individuals and as a couple, shines through the narrative. Their chemistry is authentic and palpable, making each page a treat.
I found myself cheering for Annie as she navigated her insecurities. Many readers would agree with my sentiments—one reviewer mentioned that the book felt like a “warm hug,” perfectly portraying the comfort of a sweet romance. I loved how Will, instead of trying to change her, helps her embrace her quirks and individuality. This theme struck a chord with me; it was refreshing to see a male lead who recognizes the importance of communication and self-acceptance.
However, it’s worth mentioning that while the story is beautifully executed, it does have its flaws. Some plot elements, such as Annie’s somewhat challenging relationships with her sisters, can feel a bit underdeveloped and even frustrating at times. The portrayal of her sisters sometimes veers into “mean girl” territory, creating moments that may detract from Annie’s overall journey of self-discovery. It would have been great to delve deeper into their motivations and relationships, allowing for more emotional depth.
Additionally, while the story maintains a delightful and light-hearted tone, some readers might find themselves wishing for a touch more heat in the romantic scenes. The chemistry is evident, but certain moments could have benefited from a little more tension or elaboration, especially given the steamy set-up of "practice dates." These minor drawbacks did not significantly affect my overall enjoyment, though, and I appreciated the character-driven moments over explicit encounters.
Practice Makes Perfect not only met my expectations; it exceeded them with its compelling blend of humor, heart, and relatable struggles. Adams writes with a knack for creating characters you want to root for, and she beautifully illustrates the complexities of love and personal growth. While I found the portrayal of the sisters a bit frustrating, the overall warmth of the story easily outweighs these flaws.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a charming and feel-good romance that showcases character growth, witty banter, and a heartwarming love story, Practice Makes Perfect is a must-read. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys small-town settings, strong character arcs, and delightful romantic tropes. I’m excited to see where the series goes next!
Rating: 4.5 stars