The Marrying Game

The Hasty sisters are in debt to their noses. The death of their father, a man known as The Zed, has brought them to the brink of bankruptcy. They are going to lose their home, Melismate, if they don’t find a solution to their problem. The answer comes in the form of marriage – namely find a rich man. Rufa, the eldest leads the way in the search for Mr. Right with a deep bank account.

The Marrying Game presents an ensemble of characters each unique and fully realized. The four sisters consist of Rufa, Nancy, Lydia and Selena. Rufa finds her husband in Edward, an old family friend. It is a complex relationship as Edward’s ex-lover plays an important role in this marriage. Rufa finds herself married, but not a true wife as they do not have regular marital relations. In search of physical comfort and love, Rufa finds it with another man. Edward comes across as an overwhelming nice guy who tries to do the right thing. They are unable to communicate properly and the wrong messages are received. Edward and Rufa do love each other but they have a big issue to work out.

The author does a tremendous job of setting scenes, developing the characters and the reader is prepared for what happens to them. Although Rufa’s story takes prominence, the other sisters are featured within the book especially Lydia and Nancy. Their stories are intertwined as the family relationships are very strong. The memories of their father, The Zed, are always lurking around. His presence is strong and undeniable as the girls move on with their lives. The reader comes to know him very well even though he has died by the time the story begins.

The Marrying Game is a fun and breezy book. It was very easy to read and the characters come alive for the reader. The storyline is filled with twists and turns as we follow the Hasty sisters’ lives. If you are searching for a traditional romance, let me warn you that infidelity is prominently featured in this book. However, the characters work through their problems and they do have their happily ever after ending

Reviewed by: Susan T