What’s a girl to do when it seems that only unappreciative women are the ones getting married? What could be more frustrating than having a boyfriend that seems oblivious to the idea of marriage altogether –even after you’ve made it abundantly clear that the daily challenges of his being a Shape-shifter pose no problem? Author Marianne LaCroix gives us a humorous look at these issues with Bridesmaid and the Beast, the companion read to her Ellora’s Cave story, Beast In My Bed.

Sophia Monroe has a respectable job as a legal research technician, has good friends, and one hunk of a British boyfriend. But at thirty-two she’s discovered that she wants marriage, too, and can’t understand why Greg hasn’t yet popped the vital question. By all signs it seems Greg adores her; and it isn’t as if Sophia minds that Greg is more than just human. Adding to Sophia’s frustration is the thought of having to wear an ugly tangerine bridesmaid’s gown in Celia Thompson’s wedding. And bitchy Celia is determined to make life hell for everyone in the wedding party.

The characters in Bridesmaid and the Beast are well developed and the romantic issues between Sophia and Greg are aptly explored against the humorous background of Celia’s wedding. Women who have experienced the "Always a Bridesmaid, Never a Bride" syndrome will identify with Sophia’s frustrations completely! Readers of hot paranormals will be happy to find Greg a sexy and passionate—if somewhat old-fashioned—lover.

My final verdict: author Marianne LaCroix has successfully wed her seasoned skills for erotic romance with clever comedy to give readers a thoroughly satisfying read. This story is definitely on my recommendation list. Hot, romantic and funny –Bridesmaid and the Beast has it all.

Reviewed by Laurie
© February 2008