Book Review: The Wrong Bachelor: An Enemies-to-Lovers YA Romantic Comedy (The Wrong Match Book 1) by Alexandra Moody
As I flipped through the pages of The Wrong Bachelor, I found myself utterly captivated—not just by the charming premise but by a sense of nostalgia for those sweet and awkward high school days. Alexandra Moody’s blend of romantic comedy and sharp, cheeky banter felt like a warm invitation to dive into a lighthearted story that promised both laughs and those heart-fluttering moments we all crave. After hearing so much buzz around the "enemies-to-lovers" trope, I couldn’t resist giving it a whirl.
At the heart of this delightful novel are two contrasting characters: the feisty Madi Matthews and the undeniably charming yet infuriating Cole Kingston. Madi stands out as a relatable protagonist, determined to steer clear of the cringe-inducing dating competition set up by her school, which is meant to raise money for charity. But the twist? She finds herself unceremoniously thrust into the running to win a date with her sworn enemy. The plot thickens as Cole’s playful arrogance begins to unravel Madi’s tough exterior, leading to an exploration of love, friendship, and self-discovery.
What struck me most was the way Moody navigates the traditional high school experience. The characters are relatable and multifaceted, embodying the sweet chaos of teenage life. From cheeky banter to awkward romantic gestures, the chemistry between Madi and Cole is electric. I found myself chuckling at the pair’s fiery exchanges—those moments had me laughing out loud, reminiscent of the times I, too, exchanged playful jabs with my own teenage foes.
Moody’s writing style is vibrant and engaging, making it easy to fall into this story. It flows seamlessly, with a delightful pacing that kept me turning pages, eager to see if Madi would finally acknowledge her feelings for Cole. With the right balance of humor and heartfelt moments, it captures the spirit of young love and the complexities of growing up. Quotes like "Sometimes the wrong guy can feel oh-so-right," echoed in my mind long after I set the book down, encapsulating the tumultuous nature of teenage crushes.
I appreciated how the book addressed broader themes such as bullying and self-image while never losing its lighthearted narrative. Madi’s transformation throughout her trials (and her evolving feelings toward Cole) was a testament to her resilience, something I genuinely admired.
In conclusion, The Wrong Bachelor is a charming read perfect for those who revel in YA romantic comedies with a splash of humor and a side of drama. If you adore stories that leave you giggling while simultaneously swooning—if you have a soft spot for cheeky banter and heartwarming moments—this book is undoubtedly for you. I found it to be the perfect escapism, a reminder of those exhilarating and confusing high school years that many of us look back on with a mix of fondness and embarrassment. It’s a delightful journey that reminds us that love can often bloom in the most unexpected places—just like Madi and Cole’s wild ride through their chaotic competition. Happy reading!