Lots of authors write stories with sexy and quirky characters. Susan Elizabeth Phillips creates memorable characters that last long after you've finished the book. One of the best compliments you can pay any author is that they made a lasting impression -- Phillips is definitely one of those authors. A funny thing happened on the way to reviewing AIN'T SHE SWEET?. Recently, a discussion brought up a reference about a favorite book. There was no denying our recollection of the plot or story, but the title escaped us. An opportunity to review a few older Susan Elizabeth Phillips books popped up, and I signed on for AIN'T SHE SWEET?. No sooner had I journeyed about ten pages that I knew this was it. This was the beloved story we had been talking about, a book published in 2004, a story that had won a place in our hearts filled with characters that brought us great joy. Memorable and still relevant in 2014 -- AIN'T SHE SWEET? definitely aged very well.
The mistakes of youth -- sometimes they come back to haunt or nibble at you -- other times they return with a vengeance taking a huge bite.
The last place Sugar Beth ever expects to be is back in Parrish, but she desperately needs to get some serious money. She's desperate enough to face down an entire town with a long list of grievances against her. The animosity is palatable and is vintage, brilliant Susan Elizabeth Phillips.
Once back, it's unavoidable to run into all the life long citizens of this small southern town. Funny thing about southern hospitality. It looks good on paper but these southern belles sure know how to dish the dirt and dole out punishment. Even for the mistakes made by a young teenage girl who wanted revenge on a father who did not deserve the title after his disgraceful deceit. It seems the people of Parrish still harbor a great hatred for Sugar Beth, and the town is anything but welcoming when she comes home.
In order to survive her short time back in Parrish, Sugar Beth has to gather the means to get by while searching for the one thing of value left to her by her aunt. That means getting a job. Not a soul in town is willing to hire her, with one exception. Colin Byrne her old high school English teacher. A man who knew first hand just what Sugar Beth had been capable of during her teen years. Colin had been one of Sugar Beth's targets, and now the tables have definitely been turned. Colin isn't going to let this opportunity pass.
Sugar Beth Carey is a woman who learns some very harsh lessons while young and then survival mode kicks in. Sugar Beth was a handful and larger than life, a rebellious leader who used her wealth, position and beauty to her advantage -- absolutely. How can you fault a young woman whose life was based on secrets and lies and whose family was split apart by her father? Children can be cruel, but looking deeply into Sugar Beth's life, it's understandable and dare we say excusable.
During the reading of AIN'T SHE SWEET? there are glimpses of some past characters from other Susan Elizabeth Phillips works of art. It is totally ingenious, unexpected, absolutely fitting, and brought a smile to my face when Daphne the Bunny make a cameo appearance. Fans of Phillips will certainly appreciate this incredible story. Perhaps AIN'T SHE SWEET? is one they've already read but are now reminded that it's time to revisit this timely tale of strength, courage and love.
The girl everybody loves to hate has returned to the town
she'd sworn to leave behind forever. As the rich, spoiled
princess of Parrish, Mississippi, Sugar Beth Carey had
broken hearts, ruined friendships, and destroyed
reputations. But fifteen years have passed, and life has
taught Sugar Beth its toughest lessons. Now she's come
home -- broke, desperate, and too proud to show it.
The people of Parrish don't believe in forgive and forget.
When the Seawillows, Sugar Beth's former girlfriends, get
the chance to turn the tables on her, they don't hesitate.
And Winnie Davis, Sugar Beth's most bitter enemy, intends
to humiliate her in the worst possible way.
Then there's Colin Byrne. . . . Fifteen years earlier,
Sugar Beth had tried to ruin his career. Now he's rich,
powerful, and the owner of her old home. Even worse, this
modern-day dark prince is planning exactly the sort of
revenge best designed to bring a beautiful princess to her
knees.
But none of them have reckoned on the unexpected strength
of a woman who's learned survival the hard way.
While Sugar Beth's battered heart struggles to overcome old
mistakes, Colin must choose between payback and love. Does
the baddest girl in town deserve a second chance, or are
some things beyond forgiving?
Ain't She Sweet? is a story of courage and
redemption. . . of friendship and laughter. . . of love and
the possibility of happily-ever-after.
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