The Last Marriage Of Dot Brightmore by Laura Pearson

 

After sixty years apart, Mabel and Dot have finally reunited. At the age of eightysix they are determined not to waste the precious time they have left together and decide to get married. However, they have an obstacle to overcome first.

If you're a fan of author Laura Pearson, then you've probably read The Last List Of Mabel Beaumont (you can read my review here). This book is probably the gateway novel for many readers discovering the author's work. The Last Marriage Of Dot Brightmore is the sequel to that book, and while it can easily be read as a standalone novel, you will gain a greater understanding of the characters if you read Mabel's story first.

Mabel and Dot were best friends as young women, at a time when anything other than heterosexual relationships were frowned upon. Neither woman acknowledged the feelings they had for each other, instead following tradition and marrying men. Now, sixty years later, they've finally reunited and declared their love for each other. As a symbol of their love, they decide to marry, and it’s then that Dot drops her bombshell.

For me, this book is all about seizing the moment, refusing to sit back and accept the status quo or conform to societal expectations. In a bid to overcome the problem preventing their marriage from taking place, the couple jet off to America, a daunting trip at any age. To experience the trip through Mabel's eyes, someone who had never been abroad before, was wonderful. That mixture of apprehension and excitement was palpable.

There is a tinge of sadness to Dot's story, one that gently unfolds. One of the fantastic aspects of the writing is that, having been apart for sixty years, Dot and Mabel don't miraculously know everything about each other's lives; it takes time to get to know each other again. Dot is very close to her family, and eventually admits that she has lost touch with her youngest son. Mabel decides that the upcoming marriage is the ideal excuse to try to reunite them.

The supporting characters, many of whom featured in the first book, are engaging. They each have problems of their own to deal with, but demonstrate the true nature of friendship. Being there for each other, listening, and offering support, shows that nothing is insurmountable.

Although the story wasn't quite as captivating as the first book, and I do wonder if that is down to familiarity playing a part, it is filled with charm. I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming tale that proves love isn't defined by age.

The Last Marriage Of Dot Brightmore by Laura Pearson will be published on 8th May 2026 in paperback, ebook and audio format. My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a review copy.

Author Details

Laura Pearson is the author of the #1 bestseller The Last List of Mabel Beaumont. She founded The Bookload on Facebook and has had several pieces published in the Guardian and the Telegraph.