The Perfect Dress

Fans of Brown (The Magnolia Inn) will swoon for this sweet contemporary, which skillfully pairs a shy small-town bridal shop owner and a soft-hearted car dealership owner. Graham Harrison has just returned to the tiny Texas town of Celeste, hoping for a new start for his twin daughters, Dixie and Tabby, who were bullied at their previous school. He’s not expecting anything but a welcoming environment for his girls. Mitzi Taylor, who runs the local bridal shop with her best friends, Jody and Paula, has had a crush on Graham since high school—and immediately falls in love with his feisty, fashion-loving twins when they come into the shop looking for junior bridesmaid dresses. Like Mitzi and her partners, the twins are on the large side, and their outgoing personalities and talent with flower arranging make them an immediate fixture at the dress shop. Good guy Graham’s endearing shyness is appealing, and Mitzi’s partners shine in supporting roles. Unfortunately, the portrayal of Graham’s shrewish ex-wife adds a jarring note. A decorous approach to intimate details, and the expected but welcomed happily ever after for all involved, will make readers of all ages sigh with satisfaction. Agent: Erin Niumata, Folio Literary. (Apr.)