Kat French's Wedding Crasher, previously published as Love Thy Neighbour, is a delightful romantic comedy that cleverly intertwines the seemingly disparate worlds of weddings and funerals. With its engaging premise and charming characters, the novel offers a refreshing take on the enemies-to-lovers trope, making it a must-read for fans of light-hearted romance with a touch of humor.

The story centers around Marla, the owner of the Little White Wedding Chapel, whose world is turned upside down when Gabriel, a charismatic entrepreneur, decides to open a funeral parlour right next door. The juxtaposition of a place celebrating new beginnings with one that marks the end of life creates a unique setting that French exploits to its full comedic potential. The novel's blurb teases the reader with the promise of a bad joke, but what unfolds is a narrative rich with wit, warmth, and unexpected depth.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its character development. Marla is a relatable protagonist, driven by her passion for her business and her desire to create perfect moments for couples on their special day. Her initial animosity towards Gabriel is understandable, given the potential threat his business poses to her own. However, as the story progresses, French skillfully peels back the layers of Marla's character, revealing her vulnerabilities and the personal stakes involved in her professional life. This depth makes her journey all the more compelling.

Gabriel, on the other hand, is a fascinating foil to Marla. At first glance, he appears to be the typical charming antagonist, but French avoids falling into cliché by giving him a rich backstory and motivations that are both believable and sympathetic. His interactions with Marla are charged with chemistry, and their banter is one of the novel's highlights. The gradual shift from adversaries to allies is handled with finesse, making their eventual romance feel both inevitable and satisfying.

Thematically, Wedding Crasher explores the idea of finding love in unexpected places and the importance of embracing life's unpredictability. The contrast between weddings and funerals serves as a metaphor for the dual nature of life itself—joy and sorrow, beginnings and endings. French uses this dichotomy to underscore the novel's central message: that love can flourish even in the most unlikely circumstances.

In terms of style, French's writing is both engaging and accessible. Her use of humor is deft, providing levity without overshadowing the emotional core of the story. The dialogue is sharp and witty, capturing the essence of each character and driving the narrative forward. French's ability to balance humor with heart is reminiscent of authors like Pheobe MacLeod and Portia MacIntosh, whose works similarly blend romance with comedy to great effect.

Comparatively, Wedding Crasher stands out in the crowded field of romantic comedies due to its unique premise and well-drawn characters. While it shares thematic similarities with other works in the genre, such as the exploration of love's transformative power, French's novel distinguishes itself through its clever setting and the depth of its character arcs. Readers who enjoy the works of authors like Sophie Kinsella or Marian Keyes will likely find much to appreciate in French's storytelling.

Overall, Wedding Crasher is a delightful read that offers both laughter and heart. Its memorable characters, engaging plot, and thoughtful themes make it a standout in the romantic comedy genre. Whether you're a fan of weddings, funerals, or simply a good love story, this novel is sure to leave you smiling.

For those interested in exploring this charming tale, it is available for purchase on major platforms such as Amazon and Goodreads.