Lyra Parish's Fixing to Be Mine is a delightful foray into the world of unexpected romance, where the serendipitous meeting of two seemingly mismatched individuals leads to a heartwarming tale of love, self-discovery, and second chances. The book's premise, centered around a runaway bride and a small-town man with a penchant for fixing things, sets the stage for a narrative that is as charming as it is engaging.

The story begins with the arrival of the protagonist, a runaway bride, in a quaint town. Her entrance is marked by a bag full of cash, a designer wedding dress stuffed in her trunk, and a resolute determination to escape her past. This intriguing setup immediately captures the reader's attention, as it raises questions about her backstory and the circumstances that led her to flee. The protagonist's decision to leave her old life behind and start anew is a theme that resonates throughout the novel, highlighting the courage it takes to break free from societal expectations and pursue one's own happiness.

Enter the male lead, a man who has been patiently restoring an old house, seemingly waiting for someone like her to come along. His character is portrayed as grounded, kind-hearted, and perceptive, qualities that make him instantly likable. The chemistry between the two characters is palpable from their first meeting, and Parish skillfully develops their relationship with a balance of humor, tenderness, and tension. The dynamic between them is further enriched by the small-town setting, where rumors and assumptions about their relationship add an element of intrigue and humor to the story.

One of the standout aspects of Fixing to Be Mine is its exploration of themes such as identity, belonging, and the transformative power of love. The protagonist's journey is not just about finding love, but also about discovering her true self and what she truly wants from life. Her evolution from a runaway bride to a woman who is ready to embrace love and commitment is portrayed with nuance and depth. Parish does an excellent job of capturing the internal conflicts and emotional growth of her characters, making their journey both relatable and inspiring.

The novel also delves into the idea of home and what it means to belong. The old house, which the male lead has been restoring, serves as a metaphor for the protagonist's own journey of rebuilding her life. As she becomes more involved in the restoration process, she begins to see the house as a symbol of her new beginning and the life she could have. This theme is beautifully woven into the narrative, adding layers of meaning to the characters' interactions and decisions.

Parish's writing style is engaging and accessible, with a knack for creating vivid imagery and memorable dialogue. Her ability to infuse humor into the narrative, particularly through the interactions between the protagonist and the quirky townsfolk, adds a lighthearted touch to the story. The pacing is well-executed, with a good balance between character development and plot progression, ensuring that the reader remains invested in the outcome of the story.

In comparison to other contemporary romance novels, Fixing to Be Mine stands out for its unique premise and well-crafted characters. Fans of authors like Jill Shalvis and Kristan Higgins will likely appreciate Parish's ability to blend romance with elements of personal growth and community. The novel's emphasis on the importance of taking risks and following one's heart is a theme that resonates with readers who enjoy stories about love and self-discovery.

Overall, Fixing to Be Mine is a captivating and heartwarming read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance and those who enjoy stories about starting over and finding love in unexpected places. Lyra Parish has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned. Whether you're a longtime fan of Parish's work or new to her writing, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.