Discovering Love in Unexpected Places: A Review of The Wrong Bachelor (The Wrong Match) by Alexandra Moody
When I stumbled upon The Wrong Bachelor, I found myself drawn in by the intriguing premise: a high school dating competition that pairs one girl with the "wrong" guy—cue the chaos and romantic tension. Written by Alexandra Moody, this delightful young adult novel wonderfully encapsulates the excitement and awkwardness of teenage love while deftly blending humor and heartfelt moments. As someone who adores feel-good romances, I couldn’t resist diving into this charming tale.
At the heart of the story is seventeen-year-old Madison (Madi) Matthews, who initially wants nothing to do with her school’s dating competition designed to raise money for charity. As fate would have it, she finds herself thrust into the spotlight as one of the ten contestants, competing for the affections of none other than Cole Kingston, the epitome of a high school heartthrob—and her sworn enemy. Moody masterfully captures Madi’s internal struggle between her growing feelings for Cole and her disdain for his cocky demeanor. There’s a delightful push-and-pull dynamic that keeps you turning pages, wondering whether Madi’s ice-cold attitude toward Cole can thaw.
What struck me most was how relatable Madi is—her reluctance to indulge in the typical high school romantic drama resonated deeply. As we accompany her on this rollercoaster ride of misunderstandings, unexpected alliances, and fierce competition, the author infuses moments of genuine vulnerability. Each character feels like a distinct personality, from the supportive friends to the antagonistic exes, providing depth and a touch of realism amidst the whimsical premise.
Moody’s writing style shone with its light-hearted tone and brisk pacing, ensuring that the plot moved along effortlessly. The dialogue felt natural and often laugh-out-loud funny, reminding me of the carefree days of high school filled with awkward but memorable exchanges. Quotes like Madi’s sarcastic quips or Cole’s undercover swoon-worthy moments made me smile and root for them even when they seemed destined to bicker endlessly.
Beyond the romance, The Wrong Bachelor touches on themes of identity, friendship, and the courage to embrace unexpected situations. One notable aspect is how the competition itself reveals the less glamorous facets of adolescence—the pressures of being judged, the cruelty of mean-girl antics, and the emotional turmoil that comes with first love. Yet, Moody balances these serious undertones with a playful narrative that ultimately leaves you feeling uplifted.
Anyone looking for a fun, light-hearted read will enjoy this book, especially fans of young adult romance with a dash of drama and humor. It’s a story that serves as a reminder that sometimes, love finds you in the unlikeliest of places, even when you’re absolutely certain you want nothing to do with it.
In finishing The Wrong Bachelor, I was left with a warm and fuzzy feeling—a well-deserved happy ending! I found myself laughing, swooning, and reminiscing about my own high school experiences. Moody has crafted a delightful escape that would surely resonate with anyone navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence. I highly recommend this book to readers looking for a heartening story that captures the whimsical aspects of young love, reminding us all that sometimes, the wrong bachelor can turn out to be just right.