Reviewed by Sonia

This is a beautiful story, told with simple language. It speaks of the important events in life, and the changes in relationships between mother and son as children grow, and the importance of family and the bond between husband and wife.

The story unfolds at a wedding reception, as the narrative progresses the reader learns more about the guests and their perspective on the event.

The first change in point of view is a little confusing, as there is no indicator that it has happened or is about to happen. A line or asterisk between paragraphs, italics or even a change in font would be useful to let the reader know a change is about to occur.

The other changes were more seamless as I was ready for them, although the dog's point of view lost me momentarily. Personally I'm never quite convinced by an animal's perspective intermixed with human ones, although the purpose of this perspective becomes clear as the story progresses. Even so, I would consider having one of the human narrators observe a change in the dog to signal the new arrival. or even consider leaving the dog and revelation out all together, the mother's acknowledgment of the presence, and the father's point of view could be all that is needed. Trust the reader to make the connections.

This story brought a tear to my eye, maybe I'm too romantic, or maybe, like Melissa, I see beauty, love, hope and happiness where it is to see.