Book Review: Two Friends in Marriage (Weddings with the Moks, #3) by Jackie Lau
There’s something about a marriage of convenience trope that always piques my interest, but when I discovered Two Friends in Marriage by Jackie Lau, it felt like a particularly poignant narrative given the backdrop of the Covid pandemic. I appreciated the way Lau often delves into the complexities of relationships and emotions, so I was eager to dive into this latest installment of the Weddings with the Moks series, especially as I had the privilege of reading an ARC sent by the author.
At its core, Two Friends in Marriage explores themes of companionship, loneliness, and unexpected love. The story follows Evan Mok and Jane Yin, two friends who, in the wake of the pandemic, realize just how deeply lonely they are. Their heartfelt agreement to marry if they’re still single by Jane’s thirty-third birthday leads to a life-changing decision that’s equal parts pragmatic and emotionally rich. As they navigate this new chapter together, pretending to be a couple to dodge familial questions, readers get a glimpse into their evolving emotions.
What I found particularly intriguing about Evan and Jane is how their relationship forms a sturdy bridge between friendship and romance. Evan’s bisexuality and Jane’s asexuality provide a refreshing diversity of representation, showcasing that love and intimacy come in various forms. However, I struggled to connect deeply with them as characters. While their friendship was relatable, they often felt like they were living under the shadows of their more vibrant lives rather than stepping into their own light. This subdued quality translated into a narrative that, while heartwarming, lacked the kind of urgency and excitement I, personally, was hoping for.
The writing itself is classic Jackie Lau—cozy and engaging, with witty moments sprinkled throughout. However, I couldn’t help but compare it to another marriage pact romance I recently read, In a Rush by Kate Canterbary, which had a captivating energy and characters that were hard to forget. That contrast left me yearning for more from Two Friends in Marriage. Although Lau’s signature humor and warmth were present, the pacing sometimes felt slow, and more tension could have heightened the stakes in their budding romance.
There were moments in the book that sparked joy. Lau’s adeptness at crafting relatable scenarios made me chuckle and nod in agreement, especially with Evan’s delightful family dynamic. His parents, whom we’ve seen in previous books, continue to be a charming highlight. Yet, I found myself wishing for deeper emotional anchors within Evan and Jane, something to tether me more vigorously to their journey.
In conclusion, Two Friends in Marriage is a cozy read for fans of the series and those who appreciate characters navigating the uncharted waters of evolving friendships. It may resonate particularly well with readers looking for diverse representation in romance, but I feel there’s a bit of spark missing that could elevate it to be a truly captivating love story. As I look forward to the final book in the series, I remain hopeful that Mok brother number four’s romance will bring the extra layers of intrigue and connection I crave. If you’re exploring the themes of companionship, resilience, and love in its many forms, this book is worth a place on your shelf—but it might not become an instant favorite like some of Lau’s previous works.
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